Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common but often overlooked dental condition that can lead to serious health problems if not addressed early. Characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums, gum disease progresses in stages—from mild gingivitis to more severe periodontitis. Fortunately, with timely treatment and good oral hygiene practices, gum disease is both preventable and manageable.
Gum disease begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, accumulates on the teeth and surrounding gum tissue. If not removed through brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, irritating the gums and triggering inflammation
Symptoms of gum disease include:
Red, swollen, or tender gums
Bleeding while brushing or flossing
Receding gums or longer-looking teeth
Persistent bad breath
Loose or shifting teeth
If left untreated, the infection can spread below the gumline, leading to bone loss and, ultimately, tooth loss.
The earlier gum disease is detected and treated, the better the chances of reversing the damage and preserving your oral health. Early intervention can:
Halt the progression of gum disease
Prevent tooth loss
Reduce the risk of associated health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke
Save time and money on extensive dental procedures down the line
For mild cases of gingivitis, a professional cleaning may be enough. Dentists remove plaque and tartar buildup above and below the gumline, followed by guidance on home care.
In more advanced stages, a deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing is used. This involves scraping away tartar from teeth and smoothing the root surfaces to help gums reattach.
In some cases, localized antibiotics (gels or mouth rinses) may be prescribed to reduce bacterial infection and inflammation.
For severe periodontitis, surgery may be required. Procedures include:
Flap surgery: Lifting the gums to clean deep pockets
Bone grafts: Rebuilding bone lost due to infection
Soft tissue grafts: Reinforcing receding gums
While treatment options are available, preventing gum disease in the first place is the most effective strategy. Here's how you can protect your gums:
Brush twice a day and floss daily
Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings
Avoid tobacco products
Eat a balanced diet to support immune health
Gum disease may start quietly, but the consequences of ignoring it can be severe. Early intervention is key to maintaining a healthy mouth and overall well-being. If you notice any signs of gum disease, don’t wait—schedule a dental appointment and take control of your oral health.
