Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an inflammation and/or infection of the gum tissue that threatens your oral health. Fortunately, there are warning signs that you may be developing gum disease, so you’ll know when to seek out medical help.
At Hometown Family Dental Centers in Fayetteville, Raeford, and Vass, North Carolina, we specialize in helping our patients prevent gum disease from occurring and treating it when it appears. Here’s what you need to know about recognizing the signs of gum disease so we can help you restore your oral health.
If you don’t brush and floss regularly or properly, plaque can build up in your mouth. Plaque is composed of food debris and the bacteria that feed on it, and it forms a sticky film on your teeth and gums that can harden into tartar (calculus) at or below the gum line, if not removed. Only a dental professional can remove tartar from your teeth and gums.
The build-up of plaque leads to an early form of gum disease known as gingivitis. Five signs of gingivitis include:
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis.
Periodontitis is an inflammation of the supporting structures around the teeth. Bacteria and other pathogens adhere to the tooth surface and make their way into the pockets surrounding the tooth, formed by the receding gums. As they multiply, the immune system responds by producing inflammation. Five signs of periodontitis include:
Untreated periodontitis usually results in tooth loss and may also increase your risk of serious diseases such as stroke, heart attack, and some types of cancer, as the bacteria move via the bloodstream to other parts of the body.
The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene. That means brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and seeing your dentist for twice-yearly check-ups and professional cleanings.
You can also help by not consuming a lot of sugar, especially sugary drinks that tend to stick to the teeth, and by quitting smoking, since that dehydrates the tissues and leads to tooth decay and infection.
If you do notice any of the signs of gum disease, make an appointment with Hometown Family Dental Centers as soon as possible. With professional care, we can help reverse the effects of gingivitis and prevent the disease from progressing.
