Gum disease is a common condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. The early stages often develop without pain, so people may be unaware of the condition until it has progressed. Understanding how this disease forms, as well as how it impacts one’s oral health, can help you make informed decisions about your oral health.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection and inflammation of the gums, ligaments, and bone that hold the teeth in place. It typically begins with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth throughout the day. When brushing and flossing do not remove plaque, it can harden into tartar; this generally requires a professional cleaning to remove.
Gum disease usually progresses in two main stages. Gingivitis involves inflammation of the gum tissue without damage to the supporting bone. If left unaddressed, gingivitis may advance to periodontitis. The gums can pull away from the teeth in this stage and form spaces called pockets. These pockets collect bacteria, and this may lead to the gradual breakdown of bone and tissue. Factors that can raise the risk of periodontal disease include tobacco use, diabetes, hormonal changes, and inconsistent oral hygiene.
What Are the Symptoms?
Gum disease does not always produce noticeable symptoms, particularly in its early stages. Bleeding gums are one of the most frequently reported early signs. Some people assume bleeding results from brushing too firmly, but it can indicate inflammation of the gum tissue. Other symptoms include:
- Gums that are red or swollen
- Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
- Breath that is bad
- Gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth
- Teeth that are loose
- Discomfort when chewing
Routine dental visits also allow a professional to identify changes that may not be visible at home.
How Is It Treated?
Treatment for gum disease depends on the stage of the condition and the health of the supporting tissue and bone. The general goal is to control inflammation, and it aims to support the health of the gums. For gingivitis, treatment can begin with a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. A dental professional may also recommend adjustments to your daily routine, such as improved brushing technique, daily flossing, or an antimicrobial mouth rinse.
For periodontitis, a common nonsurgical approach is scaling and root planing. Scaling removes tartar and bacteria from the tooth surfaces and from within the gum pockets. Root planing smooths the root surfaces, and this can help reduce gum recession. Providers may use a local anesthetic during the procedure. When gum disease has advanced further, a provider can recommend surgical options. Some practices also offer laser-assisted periodontal therapy, which uses focused light energy to remove diseased tissue and bacteria.
Meet With a Periodontist
A periodontist is a dentist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. During a periodontal evaluation, the periodontist may measure the depth of the spaces between the teeth and gums. After active treatment is complete, patients can move to a periodontal maintenance schedule. Ongoing maintenance may help support long-term gum health, and a periodontist will evaluate your condition and discuss the options available to you.
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