Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a serious infection of the gums that damages the soft tissue and, if untreated, can destroy the bone supporting your teeth. This condition can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to various systemic health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes.

Periodontal disease begins with the growth of bacteria in your mouth and, over time, can result in significant oral health problems. While it may start as mild (gingivitis), it can progress to a more severe stage called periodontitis if not diagnosed and managed promptly.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 50% of adults have some form of periodontal disease. This is a serious issue, as gum disease can lead to tooth loss, heart disease, and other health problems.

How common is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is among the most common oral health issues, affecting nearly half of adults aged 30 and above in the U.S., according to the CDC. It becomes even more prevalent with age, with over 70% of adults aged 65 and older experiencing some form of gum disease.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?

Recognizing the symptoms of periodontal disease early is crucial for effective management. Common signs include:

Red, swollen, or tender gums.
Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing.
Persistent bad breath (halitosis).
Receding gums or the appearance of longer teeth.
Loose or shifting teeth.
Painful chewing.

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist for an evaluation.

Periodontal disease stages

Gingivitis

The earliest stage, where the gums become inflamed due to plaque buildup. At this stage, there’s no irreversible damage, and symptoms include redness, swelling, and bleeding gums.

Mild Periodontitis

The infection progresses, causing gum recession and minor bone loss. You may notice pockets forming between your teeth and gums.

Moderate to Severe Periodontitis

At this stage, significant bone loss occurs, teeth may become loose, and there’s a higher risk of tooth loss without urgent intervention.

What causes periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is primarily caused by poor oral hygiene, which allows plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) to accumulate on teeth and gums. Over time, this leads to gum inflammation and infection.

Gum disease risk factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:

Smoking or tobacco use.
Poor oral hygiene habits.
Genetic predisposition.
Medical conditions like diabetes and arthritis.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause.
Stress, which can weaken your immune system.
Certain medications that cause dry mouth.

Is periodontal disease contagious?

While periodontal disease is not strictly contagious, the bacteria that lead to it can be spread between individuals through saliva-sharing activities, such as kissing or sharing utensils. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to minimize this risk.

What are the complications of periodontal disease?

If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to serious complications, including:

Tooth loss due to bone and tissue damage.
Abscesses or infections in the gums.
Increased risk of systemic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
Adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as low birth weight or preterm delivery.

“Periodontal disease can have systemic implications, affecting overall health, so it’s important to address it promptly,” says Dr. Severchenko, Medical Doctor.

Diagnosis and Tests

How do dentists diagnose periodontal disease?

Dentists diagnose periodontal disease using a combination of methods, including:

Visual Examination: Checking for inflammation, gum recession, and plaque buildup.
Measuring Pocket Depths: A periodontal probe is used to measure the depth of spaces between your teeth and gums.
X-rays: To assess bone loss around teeth.
Reviewing Medical History: Understanding overall health and identifying risk factors.

Early detection is key. Dr. Severchenko, a periodontist, emphasizes, “Early detection and treatment of periodontal disease are crucial for preventing tooth loss and maintaining overall oral health.”

Management and Treatment

Is periodontal disease curable?

While the damage caused by advanced periodontal disease may not be entirely reversible, early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) is often completely curable with proper care. For more severe cases, treatments can manage the disease and prevent further progression.

How is periodontal disease treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of the disease:

Non-surgical Treatments:
- Professional dental cleanings.
- Scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar below the gumline.
Medications:
- Antibiotics to control bacterial infections.
Surgical Treatments (for advanced cases):
- Flap surgery to reduce pocket depths.
- Bone or soft tissue grafts to repair damage.

Prevention

Can I prevent periodontal disease?

Absolutely! Prevention is all about maintaining good oral care habits and understanding your risk factors.

How can I lower my risk for periodontal disease?

Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to remove debris between teeth.
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams.
Avoid tobacco use.
Eat a balanced diet to support gum health.
Use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist.

“Good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, are essential in preventing periodontal disease,” says Dr Severchenko, Registered Dental Hygienist.

Outlook / Prognosis

What’s the outlook for people with periodontal disease?

With early detection and proper treatment, the outlook for patients with gum disease is generally positive. Left unmanaged, however, advanced periodontal disease can result in tooth loss and impact your overall health. Treatment plans tailored to the individual can halt progression and restore oral health.

Sarah, a patient who successfully managed her periodontal disease, shares, “Consistent dental visits and brushing routines turned my oral health around. Seeing my smile transform boosted my self-confidence!”

Living With

When should I see a dentist?

You should visit your dentist if you experience:

Red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
Persistent bad breath.
Loose teeth or receding gums.

Regular dental visits (every six months) are crucial, even if you don’t notice symptoms.

What questions should I ask my periodontist?

Some helpful questions include:

What stage is my gum disease, and what are my next steps?
Are there specific tools or products you recommend for my oral care?
How can I prevent the disease from worsening?
Am I at risk for systemic health complications due to my gum disease?

FAQ: Additional Common Questions

What does gum disease look like?

Gum disease often presents as red, swollen gums that bleed easily. You may also notice receding gums, loose teeth, or pus between gums and teeth in severe cases.

How long can you keep your teeth with periodontal disease?

With proper treatment and consistent oral hygiene, it’s possible to keep your teeth indefinitely, even with periodontal disease. Regular dentist visits are essential to monitor and manage the condition.

Mark, a patient who sought early treatment, shares, “Addressing my gum issues in time saved my teeth. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a dental professional!”

By improving your oral care habits and seeking prompt treatment, you can combat periodontal disease and maintain a healthy, confident smile. If you have concerns, schedule a consultation with your dentist or periodontist today!

Sources Cited From

Periodontal Disease | Oral Health Conditions | Division of Oral Health | CDC. (n.d.). https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/periodontal-disease.html
Periodontal (Gum) Disease. (n.d.). National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/gum-disease
Surgical Procedures. (2020, February 5). American Academy of Periodontology. https://www.perio.org/for-patients/periodontal-treatments-and-procedures/surgical-procedures/
Oral Health Conditions. (n.d.). https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/index.html
Nazir, M. A. (2017). Prevalence of periodontal disease, its association with systemic diseases and prevention. International Journal of Health Sciences, 11(2), 72-80. https://doi.org/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5426403/
Seitz, M. W. (2019). Current Knowledge on Correlations Between Highly Prevalent Dental Conditions and Chronic Diseases: An Umbrella Review. https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2019/18_0641.htm
Uwambaye, P. (2021, March 12). Assessing the association between periodontitis and premature birth: a case-control study – BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. BioMed Central. https://bmcpregnancychildbirth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12884-021-03700-0