Gum disease is a common but often misunderstood condition that can have serious consequences for your oral health if left untreated. At Park Street Dental Practice, we believe that educating our patients about gum disease—its causes, symptoms, and treatment options—is essential for maintaining a healthy smile. In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about gum disease and how to protect your gums from damage.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is primarily caused by the build-up of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—on your teeth and gums. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, leading to inflammation and infection in the gums.

Gum disease progresses in stages, starting with gingivitis and potentially advancing to periodontitis if left untreated:

• Gingivitis: The early stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is characterised by inflammation of the gums. At this stage, the gums may appear red, swollen, and may bleed easily when brushing or flossing. Gingivitis is usually reversible with good oral hygiene and professional dental care.
• Periodontitis: If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis can lead to the destruction of the bone and connective tissue that support the teeth, potentially resulting in tooth loss. Periodontitis requires more intensive treatment to manage and prevent further damage.

Causes of Gum Disease

The primary cause of gum disease is the accumulation of plaque on the teeth and gums. However, several factors can increase your risk of developing gum disease:

• Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up on the teeth, leading to gum inflammation.
• Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease, as it reduces blood flow to the gums and impairs the immune system’s ability to fight off infection.
• Genetics: Some people may be more prone to gum disease due to genetic factors, even if they practice good oral hygiene.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause can make the gums more sensitive and susceptible to gum disease.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, as high blood sugar levels can contribute to infection and slow down the healing process.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

Recognising the early signs of gum disease is crucial for preventing it from progressing to more severe stages. Some common symptoms to be aware of include:

• Red, Swollen Gums: Healthy gums should be firm and pink. If your gums appear red, puffy, or tender, it could be a sign of gingivitis.
• Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed when brushing, flossing, or eating hard foods are often a sign of gum disease.
• Persistent Bad Breath: Bad breath that doesn’t go away, even after brushing, can be a symptom of gum disease, as bacteria in the mouth produce foul-smelling gases.
• Receding Gums: If your gums are pulling away from your teeth, making your teeth appear longer, this could be a sign of periodontitis.
• Loose Teeth: In advanced stages of gum disease, the supporting structures of the teeth can be damaged, leading to loose or shifting teeth.

Preventing Gum Disease

The good news is that gum disease is largely preventable with proper oral care and regular dental visits. Here’s how you can protect your gums:

• Brush and Floss Regularly: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and along the gumline.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease, so quitting can significantly reduce your risk and improve your overall oral health.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, can help support gum health and prevent infection.
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings at Park Street Dental Practice are essential for detecting gum disease early and removing plaque and tartar build-up.

Treatment Options at Park Street Dental Practice

If you have gum disease, early treatment is crucial to prevent further damage to your gums and teeth. At Park Street Dental Practice, we offer a range of treatment options depending on the severity of the disease:

• Professional Cleaning: For patients with gingivitis, a professional cleaning (scaling and polishing) can remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, helping to reverse the early stages of gum disease.
• Root Planing and Scaling: In cases of periodontitis, a deeper cleaning procedure called root planing and scaling may be necessary. This treatment involves cleaning the roots of the teeth to remove bacteria and smooth the root surfaces, helping the gums to reattach to the teeth.
• Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help control bacterial infection and reduce inflammation in the gums.
• Surgical Treatment: For advanced periodontitis, surgical interventions such as flap surgery or bone grafts may be required to restore damaged tissues and support the teeth.

Conclusion

Gum disease is a serious condition that can have significant implications for your oral and overall health if not addressed promptly. By understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and taking proactive steps to prevent and treat gum disease, you can protect your gums and maintain a healthy smile for life.

At Park Street Dental Practice, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve optimal gum health through preventative care and effective treatment options. If you’re concerned about gum disease or would like to schedule a check-up, please contact us today. We’re here to support you in every step of your dental care journey.