Educate Yourself About the Effects of Gum Disease

Understanding Gum Disease Symptoms and the Importance of Good Periodontal Health!

What Is Gum Disease?

Just over 47 percent of adults 30 years of age and older have some form of periodontal disease, according to the CDC (Source: CDC.gov). Otherwise known as gum disease, this is a progressive condition that can cause bone loss, tooth loss, and permanent damage to the jaw and tissues. Educating yourself about the benefits of good dental hygiene, maintaining a diligent brushing and flossing routine, and keeping regular dental appointments can help prevent plaque and bacterial buildup that can cause an infection in the mouth.

Stages of Gum Disease

The three main stages of gum disease can be identified as follows:

Gingivitis

– Gingivitis occurs when plaque and bacteria build up around the gum line. If you are not brushing and flossing your teeth properly every day, you may notice inflammation and bleeding of the gums. These are two of the most common gum disease symptoms and are a red flag that an infection may be forming in the mouth.

Periodontitis

– When gingivitis is left untreated, the condition can progress to a point where the supporting bone and fibers holding the teeth in place start to deteriorate. At this stage, you may notice gum disease symptoms such as bad breath and some degree of gum recession. The effects of periodontitis on the supporting bone tissue are irreversible, and you will need immediate treatment to prevent further damage.

Advanced Periodontitis

– If you are still ignoring gum disease symptoms, the infection can spread deeper into the bone, causing further irreversible damage. During advanced periodontitis, your teeth may start to shift or become loose. You will need more aggressive treatment to save your teeth.

Causes of Gum Disease

The primary cause of periodontal disease is neglecting to maintain good oral hygiene and periodontal health. If you are not effectively brushing at least two times a day and flossing your teeth daily, you increase the risk of accumulating plaque and tartar around your teeth, which attract harmful bacteria. Risk factors for developing gum disease include:

Smoking
Hormonal changes
Certain medications
Genetic predisposition
HIV/AIDS and other illnesses
Diabetes

Learn more about gum disease and treatment options by scheduling your appointment with Dr. Vincent LaPorta or Dr. Thacker in Manchester or Glastonbury, CT today!

New Patients Manchester: 860-560-1160

New Patients Glastonbury: 860-560-1339