Most adults experience some degree of gum disease during their lifetime, but it does not necessarily lead to tooth loss. Understanding how to identify and treat the stages of this common ailment can prevent it from spreading and reduce its impact.
Gum disease is an infection of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. It starts with a build-up of bacteria that form a sticky substance called plaque over the teeth. The trapped food particles feed bacteria that migrate to the gums, eventually causing the following symptoms:
There are four stages of infection that a dentist can identify. The stage determines the treatment.
The earliest manifestation of gum disease is gingivitis, characterized by bleeding gums and bad breath. Unless there is pain or discomfort, people often ignore these symptoms. Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible with professional dental cleanings and rigorous home care.
Swelling and bleeding during flossing are symptomatic of early-stage periodontitis. Bacteria cause gaps between the teeth and gums and begin to wear away at the supporting bone. This condition cannot be reversed, but it is possible to prevent further progression by increasing the frequency of deep dental cleanings and diligent home care efforts.
Painful gums that bleed or ooze pus indicate moderate periodontitis. Pockets between the teeth and gums deepen, and bone loss increases. Gums also begin to recede, exposing tooth surfaces that they usually cover. Cleaning and scaling are necessary to prevent bacteria from migrating to the bloodstream.
Pain, bleeding, and severe bone and tooth loss occur at this stage. Surgical intervention is necessary to remove bacteria from deep pockets. Patients have a much higher risk of systemic health problems caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream.
Gum disease generally increases with age, and it is relatively common among the elderly. Others who are especially susceptible include:
Autoimmune diseases can cause symptoms that manifest in the mouth and affect the teeth. For example, patients with Sjogren's syndrome cannot produce adequate saliva flow to wash away bacteria-breeding food particles. These patients may experience any stage of gum disease.
Smoking can adversely affect the immune system, preventing it from combating oral bacteria. For this reason, the progression to late-stage periodontal disease can be rapid among smokers.
Hormonal changes at various life stages and pregnancy can cause increased blood flow to the gums, decreased saliva production, bone loss, and an inability to fight infection. The consequences range from reversible gingivitis to permanent tooth loss.
Most dentists advise their patients to brush at least twice per day and floss at least once per day. Individuals who fail to follow these guidelines are vulnerable to advanced gum disease from an accumulation of oral bacteria.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings and diligent home care can identify early-stage gum disease and keep it from advancing. A healthy mouth can also prevent a wide range of unwanted complications throughout the body.
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