Gum disease is an inflammation of the gum line that can also affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth if left untreated. There are three stages of the disease — gingivitis, periodontitis and advanced periodontitis.
As well as regular check-ups, you must brush and floss at least twice a day, reducing the build-up of plaque, which is usually the cause of gum disease. Rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash that’s used to treat gingivitis can be helpful, and try to avoid sugary foods and drinks.
Without regular check-ups, you probably won’t know that you have a problem until it’s in the more advanced stages.
Gum disease can be painless, so it is important to keep an eye on the following symptoms:
Anyone at any age can be affected, especially if you have not been making oral hygiene a priority. However, it is most common in people over the age of 30. There are some groups in the population who are at increased risk, including diabetics, pregnant women, anyone with a poor diet and those taking illicit drugs.
If left untreated, gum disease can become a severe problem. Once it is past the earliest stages, professional treatment from a dentist or hygienist is the only way to cure gum disease. If you notice any of these symptoms, the sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances are of saving your teeth and health. Please schedule an appointment to receive professional gum disease treatment from our dentist.
Early stages like gingivitis may not be painful. However, as the disease progresses to periodontitis, symptoms like gum tenderness, pain while chewing, and sensitive teeth may develop.
Yes, untreated gum disease is linked to health issues such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, and pregnancy complications. It is essential to manage gum health to support overall wellness.
People with poor oral hygiene, smokers, older adults, those with family history of gum disease, and people with chronic conditions like diabetes are at higher risk.
Dentists diagnose gum disease through clinical examination, probing to measure gum pocket depth, and sometimes X-rays to check for bone loss.
Gingivitis can often be reversed with good oral care. Periodontitis, however, can be managed to prevent further damage but may not be fully cured if significant tissue and bone loss have occurred.
For those with gum disease, more frequent dental visits, such as every 3 to 4 months, may be recommended to manage the condition effectively.
Gum disease is not directly contagious, but the bacteria that cause it can be spread through saliva, so it’s wise to avoid sharing utensils, toothbrushes, or other items with someone who has gum disease.
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