Gum disease develops when plaque and harmful bacteria build up along and beneath the gumline, causing inflammation and infection. Without proper treatment, this can damage the gums and underlying bone that support your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss. Fortunately, periodontal therapy and ongoing maintenance can help manage gum disease, prevent further damage, and support healthier gums.
When it comes to oral health, healthy gums are just as important as healthy teeth. Your gums and the underlying bone provide essential support for your teeth, making proper gum care an important part of maintaining a healthy smile. For patients who have been treated for periodontal disease, ongoing periodontal maintenance helps manage the condition, reduce the risk of further damage, and support long-term oral health.
There’s more to a great smile than just your teeth. Your gums play a key role in maintaining the health of your teeth and the jawbone in which they reside. Periodontal disease — more commonly known as gum disease — can impact anyone, and preventing and treating periodontal gum disease is essential to good oral health. It is common to be painless and may be unseen for years until it has advanced and damage is done. X-rays and routine dental exams and cleanings can help intercept the disease before its unrepairable damage is done.
Gum disease is an infection and inflammation of the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. It develops when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along the gumline. If plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
There are two main stages of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and occurs when plaque buildup causes the gums to become red, swollen, or irritated. You may also notice bleeding when brushing or flossing. Fortunately, gingivitis is typically reversible with professional dental care and good oral hygiene habits.
Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease that develops when inflammation and infection affect the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. Over time, this can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and loose teeth. Without proper treatment, periodontitis can eventually result in tooth loss.
Research has also found associations between gum disease and certain health conditions, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. While these connections are still being studied, maintaining healthy gums is an important part of supporting your overall health.
Periodontitis can develop gradually, and symptoms may not always be noticeable in its early stages. Common signs of periodontitis include:
It’s important to know that gum disease doesn’t always cause pain or obvious symptoms. In some cases, it may affect only certain areas of your mouth, making it difficult to recognize on your own. Regular dental exams allow your dentist to identify early warning signs, monitor your gum health, and recommend treatment before the condition progresses.
While plaque buildup is the primary cause of periodontal disease, several factors can increase your risk of developing gum disease or make it more difficult to manage. These include:
Understanding your risk factors and maintaining regular dental visits can help protect your gums and support your long-term oral health.
Preventing periodontal disease starts with good oral hygiene habits and regular dental visits. By removing plaque and keeping your teeth and gums healthy, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing gum disease.
Maintaining these habits can help keep your gums healthy and prevent gum disease from developing or progressing.
Treating periodontal disease begins with controlling the bacteria and inflammation affecting your gums. To accomplish this, your dentist may recommend a non-surgical treatment called periodontal therapy.
During periodontal therapy, plaque, tartar, and harmful bacteria are carefully removed from above and below the gumline to help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Your dental team will also provide guidance on maintaining good oral hygiene habits at home to support healthier gums and help prevent further progression of gum disease.
Your gums are as important to good oral health as your teeth are. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to be assessed for gingivitis and periodontal disease — and to keep a winning smile on your face!
