There are multiple negative effects from long-term gum disease, and they affect more than just the gums. Progressive gum disease, or gingivitis, also gradually destroys the connective ligaments that hold the teeth in place, the teeth themselves, and the alveolar bone that supports the teeth, creating a sunken appearance in the face and a toothless smile. Needless to say, it’s not an aesthetically pleasing condition. Caused by bacteria colonizing at and below the gum line, gum disease has also been shown to contribute to and correlate with systemic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and dementia, and, as with any infection, there’s always a risk that the blood will become infected, which can be fatal. Clearly, gingivitis is best avoided.
The good news is that it’s not that difficult to prevent gum disease from arising in the first place, and it’s reasonably easy to treat when caught early. Knowing the signs of gum disease and seeing your dentist regularly could make a major difference for your oral health, your mental health, and your overall health.
In its early stages, gum disease is often characterized by:
- Swollen gums
- Red or “angry-looking” gums
- Bleeding from the gums while brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
- Gum sensitivity
As it progresses, symptoms might include:
- Receding gums
- Continued or increased swelling in the gums
- More significant bleeding while brushing and flossing
- Development of noticeable spaces between the gums and teeth
Early on, gum disease can often be reversed with a professional cleaning, which may include antibacterial treatment and improved home hygiene habits. When it continues untreated, however, the damage becomes permanent, and the goal is to stop the damage from spreading. This is done with periodontal deep-cleaning treatments called scaling and root planing, routine periodontal visits, and clinical antibacterial treatments.
When damage does spread, more and more tissues are destroyed by infection. Periodontal pockets deepen, the gums continue to recede, and the teeth might noticeably loosen or move; along with this dental mobility, it may hurt when you chew. Dental X-rays will show moderate to severe bone loss. At this stage, the risks of infecting the immune system increase, and gum disease starts to affect overall health. These conditions proceed as the condition progresses, ending with tooth loss and bone loss. Treatments for progressive periodontal disease include deeper scaling and planing treatments with increased antibiotics, laser treatment, gingival surgeries, bone grafts, tooth extraction, dental implants, and other restorations, and lifelong periodontal maintenance checkups.
Of course, it can be challenging to notice subtle changes in your own gums or teeth, though seeing blood when you spit should at least alert you that something’s amiss. In many cases, however, early gum disease doesn’t display any symptoms at all. If you notice any signs of gum disease, call your dentist to make an appointment; it isn’t an emergency, though you shouldn’t delay. Otherwise, make sure you see your dentist for your regular checkups every six months unless the dentist tells you otherwise. Regular checkups help dentists diagnose and treat gingivitis early, when it makes the biggest difference, and regular professional cleanings help keep tartar away from the gum line and keep periodontitis at bay. Between you and your dental team, it’s within your power to protect your mouth and teeth from gum disease.
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