Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease is a serious issue for many people. Most of us might assume that cavities are the number one cause of cause of tooth loss. Although cavities may be more common among both children and adults, studies show that gum disease actually is the primary cause for people loosing their teeth. The ADA (American Dental Association) has reported that gum disease causes over 200 percent more dental problems for people than cavities. Not only that, but it is also important to note that gum disease is also related to other health issues like osteoporosis, respiratory disease, heart failure, stroke, and diabetes, etc. Therefore, this condition should not be taken lightly.

The majority of the population tends to assume that gum disease can only occur as a result of poor dental hygiene. However, the truth is that gum disease is proven to be heavily generic as well. People who have a long history of gum disease in their family are five times more likely to experience the same situation, despite practicing even above average dental hygiene habits like brushing, flossing or regular visits to the dentist.

What is gum disease?

Periodontal disease or Gum disease is an infection or inflammation of the gums caused from bacteria and comes in two major forms. These are known as gingivitis and periodontitis. They are not really different conditions but rather different stages the same condition. Gingivitis is the first stage. This can then evolve into periodontitis which is more severe. Many people can have gingivitis without even being aware of it and if left untreated can take the form of periodontitis which is harder and more costly to treat. This further stresses the importance of regular visits to the dentist.

How is gum disease treated?

In some cases dentists will use antibiotic treatment to heal the infection. If the patients teeth fall out due to the disease, tooth implants will be used to replace them which are hardly noticeable to the naked eye. For more information on this please visit our page on treating gum disease.

How can I tell if I have gum disease?

In some cases there are no warning signs which can make the condition difficult to detect for the patient. However, there are things to look out for which can be a clear sign of the disease. You might notice that there is a gap or space forming between your gums and your teeth. If there is more blood flowing from your gums than seems normal or if you gums are bleeding more easily than before from brushing or flossing, this could also be a definite sign. New pains in your teeth which make you feel like your teeth are not fitting properly in your gums is also something to look out for. Even constant bad breath is also a possible warning sign.

If you are a regular user of tobacco in any form, this makes you more susceptible to gum disease. There are also medications and drugs like steroids, birth control and cancer medicines that can lead to it. Studies also show that people with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease.

What effects can Periodontal disease have?

There is a large body of work that shows connections between periodontal disease and respiratory infections, and secondary bacterial infections in remote locations in the body. Organ damage and other finely tuned body processes can be adversely affected by bacterial infections beginning in the gumline, around the teeth, which if untreated, can cause serious health issues and can lead to pregnancy issues and death. Please be mindful of your brushing and flossing habits and if you know you have a problem, speak to an orthodontist.