Spotting the signs of gum disease
Swollen, sore and irritated gums can be a sign of gum disease, especially if they also bleed when you brush your teeth. Bad breath may also be present -- even in the early stages. For many people, the first obvious indication of gum problems will be after noticing blood in the sink after cleaning their teeth. The initial stages of gum disease are known as gingivitis. If left untreated, this can progress to a more advanced form of the disease called periodontitis.Risk factors of gum disease
Poor oral health is one of the biggest reasons for getting gum disease but there are also several risk factors that can increase the chances. These include smoking, diabetes, having a weakened immune system, a family history of the condition and age.Potential complications
If it is not treated, gum inflammation can advance to periodontitis, which affects the tissues that support the teeth. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque begin to destroy the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. This can cause teeth to become loose, and in the worst case scenario, tooth loss occurs.Losing your teeth is a scary enough thought but it's not the only potential problem. Gum disease has also been linked with a host of health problems including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis and even pneumonia. If you're pregnant, it is also a risk factor for preterm low birth weight.
What to do if you think you have gum disease
See your dentist as soon as possible if your gums are inflamed, sore or bleed after brushing your teeth. He or she will examine the overall health of your gums to determine whether gum disease has started to develop. X-rays may be needed to assess the state of your teeth and jaw bone to check whether periodontitis is present.Treatment for gum disease varies depending on how advanced it has become. Good oral hygiene will go a long way towards improving the situation, as can a scale and polish and root planing. In severe cases, periodontal surgery may be needed. Gingivitis can be kept under control and will not necessarily get any worse. If it has progressed to periodontitis, the situation is more bleak. Tooth loss is almost a given, unfortunately.
Prevention tips
Good oral hygiene is a must for preventing gum disease. Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and tartar build-up, and floss daily to get rid of plaque underneath the gum line that could otherwise cause problems. Don't forget to also clean the gaps between teeth with either floss or interdental brushes -- these areas are often neglected and can be prime spots for gum disease because of this.Last but not least, visit your dentist twice a year for regular check-ups to get on top of oral health problems before they escalate.
