Gum disease is a uniquely damaging oral health condition that can lead to tooth loss. Statistics show that nearly half of all American adults over age 30 have some degree of gum disease, placing their oral health in danger.
Gum disease starts with minor symptoms that many patients dismiss and believe to be normal. If these symptoms go unchecked, they can lead to full-blown gum disease, damaging the support systems holding teeth in place.
This blog explains the early stages of gum disease and shares four signs you may have gingivitis.
Gingivitis: The First Stage of Gum Disease
Gingivitis begins with subtle signs that could be easy to miss:
- Swollen Gums: The gums may turn darker in color and appear swollen.
- Tender Gums: Your gums may be tender to the touch.
- Gums That Bleed When Brushed or Flossed: While a few days of slight bleeding are standard when you first begin a healthy flossing routine, this symptom should not continue.
- Bad Breath: You may have bad breath that you cannot explain, even if you brush regularly.
Treatments for Gingivitis
If you notice gingivitis symptoms as described above, please seek dental care as soon as possible. Possible treatments for gingivitis include:
- Professional dental cleaning
- Improved home care routine, including daily flossing
- Use a specialized mouthwash if your doctor recommends it
- Scaling and root planing treatment for more advanced cases
Further Stages of Gum Disease
When gingivitis progresses to active periodontal disease, symptoms turn more serious. These symptoms include:
- Deep pockets between the teeth and gums where bacteria gather to form tartar
- More space between teeth, sometimes described as visible black triangles
- Discomfort when chewing
If the disease goes unchecked, it can cause pus along the gumline, extreme pain when chewing, and eventual tooth loss due to the weakening of the gum, bone, and supporting ligaments.
Preventing Gum Disease
Gum disease is one of the most preventable oral health conditions. Most patients can avoid developing gum disease if they receive regular professional cleanings and pay proper attention to brushing, flossing, and a healthy diet.
Take Action on Gum Disease Now
Fortunately, gingivitis is typically reversible if you see a periodontist and boost your at-home oral care routine. When gingivitis progresses to periodontal disease, you cannot reverse it, only control it. Prompt care can save your teeth. Contact a periodontist for help today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Disease
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease happens when plaque and tartar gather along and below the gumline. Ineffective plaque removal due to poor oral hygiene allows tartar to form. This hard substance leaches bacterial toxins that weaken the teeth's support system. Most cases of gingivitis need only regular professional cleaning and conscientious home care to reverse.
What are scaling and root planing, and how can they help reverse gingivitis?
Scaling removes every trace of plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces above and below the gumline. Root planing smooths the root surface, allowing healthy gum tissue to attach and prevent periodontal pocket formation. These procedures improve gum health by clearing the source of infection.
At Medford Periodontics, we provide the highest-quality care in a friendly, comfortable setting. If you notice any symptoms described here, contact us for a consultation. We will gladly discuss your options and help protect your teeth for a lifetime.