Five Facts About Gum Disease to Know
Gum bleeding sometimes may be due to brushing your teeth with a hard-bristled toothbrush. However, if you have frequent, unexplained gum bleeding, it could be a sign you have gum disease. As alarming as that may sound, periodontal disease is treatable and preventable. But, before you come for your gum disease treatment, here are a few facts to know about.
1. The Gum Infection Occurs in Stages
- Gingivitis
Although most people use gingivitis and periodontal disease interchangeably, these two are different. Gingivitis is the first stage of the gum disease and it is characterized by inflammation of the gingivae.
Gingivitis is very common because it is asymptomatic and most people do not realize they have an infection. You may, however, experience tender and swollen gums, bleeding after brushing and gum darkening. Some of these symptoms may disappear with proper oral hygiene. But, because it is subtle in the beginning, the chances of the disease progressing are high.
- Periodontitis
This is advanced periodontal disease and it causes gums to detach from the teeth. Periodontitis leads to the formation of gum pockets that can harbor bacteria. The infection affects the surrounding teeth, tissues, and ligaments that support the teeth. If not treated properly, periodontal disease may cause the gums to recede, which exposes the root and lead to decay. Furthermore, the infection may spread to the bloodstream causing inflammation, thereby affecting your health.
Periodontal disease symptoms include:
- Unexplained gum bleeding
- Halitosis
- Pus formation in between your teeth and gums
- Receding gums
- Darkening of the gums
- Loose teeth
In advance situation, the disease can lead to tooth loss
2. Several Risk Factors Can Predispose You to Periodontal Disease
Gum inflammation can affect anyone. However, certain factors like smoking, vitamin c deficiency, genetics, and obesity can increase the risk of getting gum disease.
If you have any of these risk factors, it is crucial to monitor your gums every day for any bleeding and bruising.
3. Gum Disease Has Many Causes
Although poor hygiene is the primary cause of gum disease, other causes can trigger the inflammation.
- Hormonal imbalance increases the risk of gum disease in women. Hormones affect the body’s response to toxins and blood supply to the gum tissues, which can lead to tender and swollen gums.
- A compromised immune system due to multiple infections or immune burdening infections.
- Dry mouth caused by certain medication can also increase bacterial growth
4. Gum Infection is Treatable
At Rossland Landing Dental Care, we use different techniques to promote the reattachment of the gums and stop the progression of the infection.
- Root scaling and planning
Root scaling and planing is the initial treatment for gum disease. Scaling is the removal of tartar accumulated on the teeth and above the gum line. The dentist cleans off the buildup and debris.
Root planing is the reattachment of the gums to the teeth.
- Medication
Antibiotics can help reduce bacteria. Our dentist in Ajax may recommend mouth rinses, gels, and oral medication.
- Flap surgery
Flap surgery is done to reduce the gum pockets. The dentist will make a tiny incision on the gums and lift them back. Bone can be re-contoured before the gum tissues are fixed back.
- Bone graft
Periodontal disease can destroy the bone and you need a bone graft to rebuild it. The procedure involves the use of bone granules from your body or cadaver.
- Soft tissue graft
When the gum recedes, you lose soft tissue and they may need to be reinforced. The dentist will get tissue matter from your palate and reattach it to the affected area. This will help to reduce the recession.
Tooth extraction is done when the teeth cannot be saved.
5. The Gum Infection is Preventable
Proper dental care and hygiene is the best way of defeating gum disease. Using proper brushing techniques and flossing once a day will prevent plaque accumulation.
Additionally, get regular dental checkup and cleaning. Fluoride treatment is also a preventive measure against decay.
Make an Appointment
Gum disease doesn’t cause symptoms until its late. However, with proper hygiene and regular dental checkups, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy. Visit Rossland Landing Dental Care for your routine dental checkup.