Gum disease is a common yet often overlooked condition that can have serious consequences for your oral health if left untreated. To ensure your condition doesn’t unnecessarily worsen or go untreated, it’s important to understand the early signs of gum disease and if you do find yourself with the condition, it’s important to know what you need to do to treat gum disease. In this post, we explore gum disease symptoms, its causes, and the effective treatments available.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It begins with gingivitis, a mild form, and can progress to periodontitis, a more severe condition that can lead to tooth loss.
How does Gum Disease develop?
Gum disease starts with plaque buildup on the teeth, which h can occur for a number of reasons primarily poor oral hygiene, but smoking, genetics, and certain health conditions can also increase the risk. If the plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar, leading to gum inflammation. This early stage, known as gingivitis, can be reversible with good oral hygiene, however, if untreated, it may develop into periodontitis, where the infection spreads to the bone structures around the teeth and more intensive treatment is required.
Why Gum Disease Often Goes Unnoticed
Gum disease symptoms often go unnoticed because its early stages can be mild or even painless. Many people only notice symptoms once the disease has progressed. This is why regular dental check-ups are vital for early detection.
Common Signs That Indicate Gum Disease
Recognising the signs of gum disease early is crucial to preventing its progression. Here are the common gum disease symptoms:
Bleeding Gums
Swollen or Tender Gums
Persistent Bad Breath
Receding Gums
Dark or Discoloured Gums
When to See a Dentist
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist promptly. Ignoring gum disease symptoms can lead to serious complications, such as tooth loss or systemic health problems.
Alternatively, making regular dental visits (at least twice a year) part of your routine is a great way to ensure any gum disease is detected promptly and prevented.
Risks of Ignoring Gum Disease
If left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss and increase the risk of other health problems such as heart disease and stroke. Chronic gum infections can also impact your quality of life.
Are certain people more prone to gum disease?
How to Treat Gum Disease
Early intervention is key to managing gum disease, with treatment solutions depending on its severity. In the early stage (gingivitis), gum disease can often be reversed, however if gum disease progresses to periodontitis, professional treatments may be necessary.
At-Home Care for Gingivitis
For early gum disease (gingivitis), there are several proactive steps you can take to reduce plaque buildup:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque.
- Floss daily to clean between your teeth and prevent plaque buildup.
- Use antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and prevent infection.
Professional Treatments for Periodontitis
If gum disease has progressed to periodontitis, professional treatments like the following, will be required:
- Scaling and root planing: A deep cleaning procedure that removes tartar and smooths the roots of teeth to help gums reattach.
- Antibiotic therapy: Dentists may prescribe antibiotics to control infection and reduce inflammation.
- Advanced treatments: In severe cases, options like laser treatments or surgery may be needed to restore gum health.
Potential Consequences of Untreated Gum Disease
Ignoring gum disease can lead to serious consequences, not only for your oral health but also for your overall well-being including:
- Tooth loss: As gum disease progresses, it destroys the tissue and bone supporting your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.
- Increased risk of health problems: Untreated gum disease has been linked to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
- Chronic infections: Ongoing gum infections can result in long-term discomfort and other complications.
Aqua Smiles Dental: Gum Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Services
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, Aqua Smiles Dental are your trusted treatment partner. At our clinic in Hoppers Crossing, we offer advanced diagnostic tools, comprehensive treatments, and specialise knowledge to manage gum disease at all stages.
Dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain healthy gums, schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about how we can help you treat and prevent gum disease.
