fbpx

In Canada, an estimated three out of four adults have some level of gum disease, and many don’t realize it. Gum disease is the inflammation and infection of the gums and the surrounding tissue. Generally caused by bacterial plaque, it is the biggest cause of adult tooth loss.

How Gum Disease Develops

Plaque, a thin, colourless film, is caused by bacteria in your mouth and it develops on your teeth. Left untreated, bacterial plaque will harden to tartar. A rough, porous mineral buildup usually yellow or brown in colour, tartar forms at the underneath of the gum line. Tartar excretes the toxins that cause gum inflammation, resulting in the development of periodontal pockets that hold even more toxins and bacteria. This condition can lead to the loosening of the teeth, or even make teeth fall out. As the condition worsens, the accumulated toxins and bacteria move deeper into the jaw to destroy the bone that holds your teeth in place.

What to Look For

Stopping the progression of gum disease before it escalates can save patients added time, discomfort, and expense. Signs of gum disease can include:

  • Red, inflamed gums
  • Bleeding while brushing or flossing
  • Receding gums
  • Loose or separating teeth
  • Presence of pus between the gum and tooth
  • Chronic halitosis

A Bigger Problem

Gum disease can wreak havoc on your mouth, but it can also cause other health concerns. Research has linked gum disease to problems such as heart disease, osteoporosis, stroke, and complications with diabetes. Because the symptoms are initially mild, many people don’t realize they have gum disease, which can allow the condition to worsen. You may have increased risk for gum disease if you smoke, have diabetes, take certain medications, endure excessive stress, or don’t eat properly.

Treating Gum Disease

Periodontics is the area of dentistry that focuses on gum disease treatment. If caught in the early stages, your dentist can reverse gum disease. To begin, the dentist will scale the teeth to remove plaque and calculus and plane the roots to smooth them. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to clear up any infection or inflammation. Advanced cases may require your dentist to surgically trim the gums, disinfect the tissue, and remove the hardened plaque.

FAQs

My gums bleed when I brush. Should I be worried?

If you had bleeding on your arm or leg, you would check it out. Because bleeding gums can indicate a more serious problem like gum disease, you should make an appointment with your dentist to check it out.

Is gum disease hereditary?

Although there is a genetic component to gum disease, other factors, like lifestyle choices, age, and oral health habits, can also influence whether you develop this condition. Talk with your dentist to find out if you have other risk factors for gum disease.

What is the cure for gum disease?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for gum disease. However, proper treatment and good home care can stop the progression of the disease and restore your oral health.