Gum disease, or periodontal disease, can be serious, much more than a problem with sore or bleeding gums. Leaving it alone and having a severe condition can affect your overall health. If you identify yourself with some of the previous early-stage signs of gum disease and wait too long, you could be in pain, lose teeth, or have other serious issues that may not be only to your mouth. If you do have red, swollen, and/or bleeding gums, contact the periodontal treatment near you before it gets worse.
Why Worry About Gum Disease?
Gum disease typically starts with plaque forming on your teeth. If we don’t remove that plaque, eventually it gets hard and becomes tartar. This allows for infection to develop through the gumline, and as it continues to expand, the infection destroys the bone and tissue that keep your teeth in place and support their structure.
What happens when you do not get treatment sooner rather than later:
- Gum Infections will worsen—The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. The good news is that gingivitis can be treated and reversed. If untreated, gingivitis continues to develop into periodontitis; it likely will cause permanent damage.
- Tooth Loss—Adult tooth loss is caused most often by advanced gum disease. As the gums recede away from the teeth and the bone support also deteriorates, the teeth will continue to loosen and eventually fall out.
- Persistent Bad Breath—A persistent gum infection can result in the accumulation of bacteria that can produce persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
- Pain and Sensitivity—You may have even more sensitivity and pain due to the gum recession and exposure of more of your teeth, especially when eating or drinking something hot or cold.
What Are the Risks of Gum Disease?
Several dangers of gum disease that you should be mindful of:
|
Feature |
Preventive Exam |
Diagnostic Exam |
|
Purpose |
To prevent dental problems |
To find the cause of an existing problem |
|
When it’s done |
On a regular schedule (usually every 6 months) |
When you have symptoms like pain or sensitivity |
|
Main focus |
General oral health check |
Problem-specific evaluation |
|
Common procedures |
Visual exam, X-rays, cleaning, oral health tips |
Detailed X-rays, tests, and symptom investigation |
|
Example visit reason |
Routine checkup |
Toothache, bleeding gums, or sensitivity |
|
Treatment recommendation |
Preventive care (cleaning, advice) |
Diagnosis and treatment plan (e.g., filling, root canal) |
How Does Advanced Gum Disease Affect You?
When gum disease progresses to an advanced stage, the risk becomes higher:
- Advanced gum disease risks include shifting teeth, jawbone loss, and more complex treatment regimens. You might even require surgery or implants to make you smile again.
- Recovery is longer and more expensive the more advanced the disease.
- Eating and talking can become painful or difficult.
Can Gum Disease Impact My General Health?
Yes, indeed. The relationship between gum disease and overall health risks continues to develop. Research indicates gum disease can contribute to the following conditions:
- Heart disease—The heart may be impacted by bacteria from diseased gums that enter the bloodstream.
- Diabetes complications—Individuals with diabetes may be less responsive to gum infection, and gum disease may complicate blood sugar control.
- Pregnancy complications—Gum disease during pregnancy may increase the risk of low birth weight and premature delivery.
- Respiratory Infections—Aspiration of mouth infections into the lungs is possible.
Your oral health affects your overall health. Maintaining healthy gums is an important aspect of helping to protect yourself from bigger health problems later.
When Should You See a Dentist?
A dentist near you should be consulted if you observe:
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Swollen or red gums
- Receding gums
- Loose or sensitive teeth
Gum disease is easier to control and has a better chance of causing less long-term harm if it is treated early.
Choose Healthy Gums, Choose a Healthier Life
Your smile is worth protecting. We hope you never have to face gum disease, but if you experience any of the symptoms or simply want to be mindful of your oral health, the skilled and caring providers at Brandon Gate Dental Care will help. We will provide you with personalized care and make all attempts to restore and protect your gums with care and consideration.
Take the first step for healthier gums! You can book online or call Brandon Gate Dental Care. Today is the first day of the journey to a healthier you.