Have I Got Gum Disease? Understanding the Signs of Gingivitis and Periodontitis

30/06/2023

Have I Got Gum Disease? Understanding the Signs of Gingivitis and Periodontitis

We all brush our teeth every day and do our best to avoid too much sugar. But maintaining a healthy smile extends beyond the teeth, and our gums are often forgotten about or taken for granted. 

Our gums serve an important role. They create a safe seal around the base of our teeth, keeping them in place and protecting them from infection. Like our teeth, our gums are susceptible to damage from bacteria in our mouths. 

Gum disease is a common problem that’s often overlooked. Without the proper care and early intervention, it could become very serious. 

In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention techniques associated with gum disease. 

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an infection of the soft tissue surrounding the base of your teeth, and are formed in two stages; gingivitis and periodontitis. 

Gingivitis 

Although gingivitis is the milder form of gum disease, it shouldn’t be ignored. If you have blood spots, inflammation, and redness around the gums, you have gingivitis. Gingivitis can also be symptomless; however, we will see signs during routine checkups.

Periodontitis 

Gingivitis will eventually develop into periodontitis. Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease. Here, bacteria build up in pockets between your gums and teeth. This can cause your teeth to become loose and eventually fall out. 

In addition to being the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, periodontitis will also cause damage to your jaw. 

What Causes Gum Disease?

The number one cause of gum disease is plaque. Other factors that could cause gum disease include illnesses like diabetes, HIV, and cancer, certain medications, hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause, as well as smoking, diet, and genetics. 

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

Often, the first signs of gum disease are redness and inflammation and tiny blood spots on your toothbrush after brushing. You may also have bad breath. 

As the disease progresses, your gums will start to recede, and you may notice pockets forming, as well as loose and shifting teeth. 

How Is Gum Disease Treated?

Before treating gum disease, we will need to diagnose it. Some of the symptoms are difficult to identify, so it’s important to see us regularly for a routine checkup. 

The treatment option we use will depend on how far your gum disease has progressed. Initially, a professional clean by our dental hygienist will remove any plaque and tartar causing irritation to your gums. 

In addition, we can provide advice on oral hygiene products and techniques, diet, and lifestyle to help you maintain better gum health in the future. 

In more advanced cases, you may need antibiotics, tooth extraction, professional cleaning below the gum line, or even surgery. 

How Do You Avoid Gum Disease? 

The best way to avoid gum disease is to maintain good standards of oral health and visit us for a checkup every six months. Brushing your teeth using fluoride toothpaste will remove plaque. 

Using a soft toothbrush will reduce irritation to your gums. Replace your toothbrush at least every three months. 

Flossing helps remove food debris and plaque between your teeth, and using mouthwash helps fight bacteria in your mouth. Avoiding smoking and reducing your sugar intake can also help keep your gums healthy. 

Healthy Gums at Harley Private Dental

At Harley Private Dental, we provide regular checkups and hygiene appointments to help you stay on top of your gum health. If you have gum disease, we’ll help you fight it. 

Call us today to schedule your next appointment. 

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