Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. It’s a significant cause of tooth loss in adults and could be painless, meaning you may not even realize you have it. The primary culprit behind gum disease is plaque; this sticky film of bacteria perpetually forms on our teeth. If you have bleeding gums when you brush or floss, it could be a sign of gingivitis or gum inflammation. This condition is common but reversible if treated promptly. However, untreated gingivitis can progress into periodontitis or severe gum disease with painful symptoms and potentially permanent effects.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
The initial stage of gum disease might present itself through red or swollen gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing – a symptom many people mistakenly consider harmless. Other warning signs include persistently bad breath (halitosis), receding gums, loose permanent teeth, changes in bite alignment, and alterations to the fit of partial dentures. In advanced stages like periodontitis, which affects around 40% of adults over 30 in the U.S., tissue and bone loss supporting the teeth occur, leading to loosening and movement of teeth within your mouth.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
Certain factors increase one’s risk for developing gum disease, including poor oral hygiene habits; smoking tobacco; genetics; having crooked teeth that are harder to clean effectively; pregnancy-related hormonal changes; diabetes complications; certain medications such as steroids and anti-seizure drugs; cancer therapy drugs; some calcium channel blockers; and oral contraceptives.
Treatment & Prevention
Early detection often offers better chances of reversing these conditions; therefore, regular dental check-ups are critical, especially since it’s possible to have no warning signs whatsoever. If you have noticed any signs of gingivitis or periodontitis, it is advisable to contact a dental professional immediately. Treatments often involve deep cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums. Practicing good oral hygiene on a regular basis by brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day could help prevent gum disease. It’s also beneficial to ensure that you brush before bed, after meals, and for at least two minutes per session. Regular visits with dental professionals could help identify early signs of dental problems such as gingivitis, thus preventing them from escalating into serious issues.
Seek Professional Help
If you’re suffering from swollen or bleeding gums regularly, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Call 410-356-7799 or request an appointment online. Remember, maintaining healthy smiles involves more than just daily brushing and flossing; it requires regular dentist appointments and a balanced diet, among other practices, thereby helping to prevent gum disease.