Gum disease is a problem that affects patients of any age. There are three stages in the development of gum disease, and treatment varies depending on the severity of the patient's gum disease. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and eventually, tooth loss. Tooth loss can then cause a domino effect, the loss of one tooth leading to further bone loss in the area, followed by additional tooth loss.
The most common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. Plaque accumulates throughout the day, and if it is not regularly removed through oral hygiene, it calcifies into tartar. It only takes about 24 hours for plaque to turn into tartar, which is why flossing every day is so important.
Other causes of gum disease include genetics, certain medications, and even pregnancy.
It is important to be able to identify gum disease so that you can take the necessary steps to prevent progression and ultimately, avoid tooth loss. Gum disease begins with swelling and redness in the gum tissue. Some may have bleeding when they brush or floss. Halitosis, chronic bad breath, is another indicator of gum disease.
More severe symptoms of gum disease include: gum recession; pus at the gum line; loose or shifting teeth; pain when eating; and ill-fitting dental restorations.
What are some gum disease treatments?
At the earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, a simple professional cleaning accompanied by improved oral hygiene might solve the issue. When plaque calcifies into tartar, it causes inflammation and redness in the gum tissue. A cleaning by your dental hygienist will remove the hard tartar (which cannot be removed with brushing) and clean out the gum pockets all around each tooth. Your dentist may ask you to come in for a cleaning sooner than six months to make sure everything is staying clear and healthy.
Periodontitis is the progression of gum disease beyond gingivitis. It is much more harmful, but can still be treated without extensive restorations. At this point, plaque and bacteria in your gum pockets have reached a point that a simple cleaning will not be effective. Your dentist may recommend a scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), which is much more involved and is usually split into two visits. This is because it is necessary to numb the side of the mouth being treated, and your dentist does not want your entire mouth to be numb all at once. The anesthetic allows your hygienist to clean well below the gum line into your gum pockets to clear tartar and bacteria.
The final stage of gum disease is called advanced periodontitis and is the most damaging stage. By now, the connecting tissues and bone that hold your teeth in place begin to deteriorate. Your dentist will likely refer you to a periodontist for treatment, which may include the use of a soft tissue laser, which can remove damaged gum and bone tissues while leaving the healthy tissues unaffected. If gum recession or bone deterioration is advanced, you may require a gum and/or bone graft to restore the supporting structures before dental implants can be placed to restore any missing teeth.