Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, refers to the inflammation and infection of tissues that support your teeth. Nearly half of the US adult population have some form of gum disease, making it the leading cause of tooth loss. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid severe complications in the future.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
The symptoms of gum disease can vary depending on the disease's progression. Common symptoms of gum disease to watch out for include:
- Bleeding gums
- Reddish or purplish gums
- Swollen, tender gums
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Unpleasant taste
- Gum recession
- Pockets between teeth and gums
- Pain when chewing
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Tooth loss
Most people don't experience discomfort, especially in the early stages of gum disease. That's why it's so important to visit your dentist regularly and practice good oral hygiene.
Stages of Gum Disease
There are four stages of gum disease:
1. Gingivitis
This is the early stage of gum disease, classified by swollen, red, or bleeding gums when brushing or flossing your teeth. There is no bone loss in this stage of the disease, and discomfort is mild. In this stage, gum disease is reversible and can be fully treated with proper dental care.
2. Mild Periodontitis
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to mild periodontitis, where the inflammation spreads deeper, affecting supporting bone. In this stage, your gums may pull away from your teeth, forming pockets around them. Food, bacteria, and plaque will begin to collect in these pockets, leading to bad breath and infection. The surrounding bone will start to become damaged from your body's immune response to the infection.
3. Moderate Periodontitis
The symptom in these stages become more severe, and the infection spreads. More supporting bone is lost, teeth loosen, and pockets become deeper.
4. Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced and final stage of periodontitis consists of abscesses (pus-filled pockets due to infection), and tooth loss.
Causes of Gum Disease
Gum disease is caused by plaque, which is a sticky film that accumulates on your teeth. If the plaque is not cleaned thoroughly through proper oral hygiene, it may result in an inflammation and infection of your gums.
Other risk factors for gum disease include:
- Smoking/tobacco use
- Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Chronic stress and poor immune system function
- HIV, diabetes, and other chronic health problems
- Substance abuse
Treatment of Gum Disease
The treatment for gum disease largely depends on its stage. In the early stage (gingivitis), it is often reversible with proper oral care. However, when it progresses to periodontitis, scaling and root planing are necessary to help the gums reattach to the teeth, remove tartar buildup, and prevent further progression of the disease. During a routine dental exam, our Walnut Creek dental team can assess if scaling and root planing are suitable for your oral health needs. In more severe cases, a referral to a periodontist and possible surgical intervention may be required.
Prevention of Gum Disease
Gum disease is largely preventable! Here are some ways you can protect your smile and prevent gum disease:
- Brush your teeth for two minutes at a time, twice a day
- Floss your teeth once a day
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet to support your immune system
- Cut down sugary food and drinks
- Avoid tobacco and substance use
- Visit your dentist every six months for a routine cleaning and exam
If you think you may have gum disease, we are here to help! Make an appointment with at our Walnut Creek dental office by calling (925) 705-7093 or by booking an appointment online.
