Don't Ignore These Early Warnings of Gum Disease
Gum disease, affecting millions worldwide, is highly prevalent due to contributing factors such as poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, genetic predisposition, and certain medical conditions like diabetes.
The report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that 47.2% of adults aged 30 and older have periodontal disease. Among adults 65 and older, the prevalence increases to 70.1%.
Learn about the early warning signs of this condition and end your "dentist near me" searches to enhance your oral health and protection.
Key Takeaways:
Gum disease develops due to various contributing factors.
The condition affects roughly 47.1% of adults 30 years old and over.
Knowing about its early signs helps enhance and protect oral health.
Exploring Gum Disease
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis, impacts the supportive structures around teeth, including the gums, bone, cementum, and ligaments. Gingivitis, the milder form, is common and reversible with improved oral hygiene.
However, if untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a chronic, irreversible inflammatory disease leading to bone loss and potentially tooth loss.
Prevalence And Impact
A White Paper published in the British Dental Journal sheds light on gum disease's substantial economic and societal burden.
Between 1990 and 2017, oral diseases like dental caries and periodontitis remained prevalent worldwide, totalling 3.47 billion cases by 2017. Despite ranking 14th and 16th in years lost to disability, they contributed more than any other disease.
Periodontitis affects roughly half of adults and is associated with over 57 non-communicable conditions, highlighting its substantial impact on global health.
Since 1990, periodontitis prevalence has remained unchanged, burdening human health and economic resources.
Contributing Factors
The accumulation of bacteria and plaque in the oral cavity causes this condition. Various factors contribute to its development, including:
Genetic predisposition
Lifestyle choices
Poor diet
Smoking or use of smokeless tobacco
Autoimmune or systemic disease
Diabetes
Hormonal fluctuations
Bruxism
Certain medications
Excessive alcohol intake
Types of Gum Disease
Below are different types of gum diseases:
Gingivitis: It’s the mildest form of periodontal disease. Symptoms include red, swollen, tender gums and bleeding during brushing or flossing. Gingivitis can be resolved with professional treatment and consistent home care.
Mild Periodontitis: This gum disease develops from untreated gingivitis. Periodontal pockets form between teeth and gums and cause early bone loss. To prevent further damage, prompt dental care is essential.
Moderate to Advanced Periodontitis: It’s the most advanced stage, with significant bone loss and deepening of periodontal pockets involved. Signs include receding gums, loose teeth, and the potential need for extractions may occur. Comprehensive dental treatment is also required to manage progression and preserve oral health.
Early Warnings of Gum Disease
Red, swollen, or tender gums
Healthy gums have a pinkish hue and feel firm to the touch. If your gums appear redder than usual, feel swollen, or are sensitive to touch, it could be an early sign of gum disease. Inflammation in the gums is often a result of bacterial buildup.
Bleeding gums
It is not normal for your gums to bleed easily when brushing or flossing your teeth. It isn't normal for healthy gums to bleed during regular oral hygiene practices. Bleeding gums often indicate gum inflammation caused by plaque or tartar, which irritates the gum tissue.
Receding gums
When the gum tissue moves away from the teeth, it exposes the tooth roots. This symptom can result in the appearance of longer teeth. Gum recession can be triggered by gum disease, resulting in tooth sensitivity and increased susceptibility to tooth decay.
Persistent bad breath
Chronic bad breath (halitosis) or a persistent unpleasant taste in the mouth can indicate gum disease. The gum-disease-causing bacteria release toxins that can create an unpleasant odour or taste.
Loose or shifting teeth
Gum disease can weaken the gums, jawbone, and other supporting structures of the teeth. As a result, you may notice that your teeth feel loose or may even shift slightly.
Changes in tooth alignment
If you notice a change in the alignment of your teeth or a shift in your bite, it could be a sign of gum disease. As the gum tissue and supporting structures become compromised, the position and alignment of the teeth may be affected.
Pus between the gums and teeth
The pus between the gums and teeth indicates an infection in the gums. It often appears as a white or yellowish discharge and is a sign that gum disease has progressed to a more advanced stage.
Preventive Measures and Treatments
Protective measures against gum disease are essential because they help maintain optimal oral health and prevent gum disease progression, which can result in more severe complications such as potential systemic health issues.
Tips For Reducing Risk to Gum Diseases
Brush your teeth at least two times daily with a soft bristle and fluoride toothpaste.
Schedule regular dental check-ups to detect any signs of gum disease early on.
Quit smoking as it increases gum disease risk and can disrupt the healing process.
Have a diet loaded with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and reduce sugary and processed foods intake.
Excessive alcohol intake can contribute to gum disease. Consume alcohol moderately or avoid it altogether.
Manage stress as chronic stress can be detrimental to immune system health and increase gum disease risk.
Use antimicrobial mouthwash to lessen plaque and bacteria in the mouth.
Avoid grinding your teeth or see your dentist and discuss using a mouthguard or other interventions to protect your teeth and gums.
Properly manage any underlying health conditions to reduce the risk of gum disease.
On top of brushing and flossing regularly, use a tongue scraper to lessen bacteria from your tongue and maintain fresh breath.
Conclusion
Early intervention and treatment of gum disease are vital in preventing the condition's progression and avoiding more severe complications.
Addressing gum disease in its early phase can help preserve tooth structure, prevent tooth loss, and maintain optimal oral health.
Westgate Dental Centre has skilled dental team in Maple Ridge who provide comprehensive dental services in a modern and comfortable environment. Let’s talk about your next dental check-ups, cleanings, restorative procedures, and cosmetic treatments today. Call now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can gum disease be reversed?
While early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) is reversible with good oral hygiene and the help of an oral health care provider, advanced gum disease (periodontitis) may not be fully reversible and may require ongoing management to control the progression of the disease.
Is gum disease contagious?
No, gum disease itself is not contagious. However, the bacteria contributing to gum disease may increase the risk of gum disease through saliva, such as through sharing utensils or kissing.
What are the treatments for gum disease?
Professional dental cleanings: Regular cleanings by a dental hygienist to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
Improved oral hygiene practices: Proper brushing and flossing techniques to effectively clean teeth and gums.
Antibiotics: Oral or topical antibiotics help control bacterial infection and reduce inflammation.
Gum grafting: Surgical procedure to replace receding gum tissue and cover exposed tooth roots.
Flap surgery: A surgical procedure to lift the gums and clean the roots of teeth, followed by repositioning the gums to reduce pocket depths.
Bone grafting: Placement of graft material to stimulate bone regeneration in areas affected by bone loss.
Laser therapy: Use of dental lasers to remove infected tissue and promote gum healing.
