Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums surrounding your teeth. Gum disease is one of the top reasons for tooth loss in adults, and because it is virtually pain-free, many patients do not know they have the disease. During each regular checkup, our hygienist and dentists will check for signs of periodontal disease by measuring the space between your teeth and gums.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque (a sticky form of bacteria that forms on the teeth). If the plaque is not removed (by flossing, brushing, and regular dental checkups), it will continue to build up and create toxins that can damage the gums. Periodontal disease forms just below the gum line and creates small pockets that separate the gums from the teeth. Periodontal disease has two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Gingivitis — This is the early stage of gum disease, when the gums become red and swollen, and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is treatable and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.
- Periodontitis — If left untreated, gingivitis will advance into periodontitis, and the gums and bone that support the teeth will become seriously and irreversibly damaged. Gums infected with periodontitis can cause teeth to become loose, fall out, or be removed by a dentist.
Certain factors can increase a patient's risk of developing periodontal disease, including:
- Smoking or using chewing tobacco
- Diabetes
- Certain types of medication such as steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, calcium channel blockers, and oral contraceptives
- Bridges that no longer fit properly
- Crooked teeth
- Old fillings
- Pregnancy
While it is possible to have periodontal disease and not know it, some symptoms can include:
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
- Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Any change in the fit of partial dentures
Treating Gum Disease
Periodontal disease or gum disease affects one out of every five adults. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and begins with such common symptoms as red or swollen gums, gums that bleed easily, or gums that are receding away from your teeth.
Caused by bacteria found in plaque, periodontal infections are linked to serious diseases that affect the body, such as heart disease, diabetes, strokes, pre-term birth, and many others.
While daily brushing and flossing and regular cleanings can help prevent gum disease from occurring, if left untreated, periodontal disease can require scaling, root planing, or even surgery to rid the mouth of the bacteria.
Treatments for gum disease can vary depending on the severity of each individual case. Typical treatments include Modular Periodontal Therapy, Scaling and Root Planing, laser gum therapy, or periodontal surgery.
Modular Periodontal Therapy
Modular Periodontal Therapy is a unique treatment of Periodontal Disease that our hygienist Whitney has seen great results with. Modular Periodontal Therapy is a non-surgical method of gum disease treatment that achieves results without the pain and discomfort of traditional treatments. Using a scientifically validated system of bacterial testing, medications and convenient home care, Modular Periodontal Therapy helps the mouth and body return to full health in a pain-free, non-invasive manner, making it a great alternative to typical oral surgery.
Oral Health is Whole Body Health
As a Modular Periodontal Therapist, Whitney is commited to helping patients overcome gum disease and other periodontal issues by focusing on the causes of the problem, not just the symptoms. Our office recognizes that while gum disease may originate in the mouth, it can impact the health of the whole body.
Preventing Gum Disease
Regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are important for maintaining your health and the health of your smile. You don't have to lose teeth to periodontal disease, and by practicing good oral hygiene at home, you can significantly reduce your chances of ever getting gum disease. Remember to brush regularly, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits to help keep your smile healthy.