60% of adults have some form of periodontal disease. It is painless and will progress if not treated leading to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is a diagnosis for life – it is an inflammatory disease that must be managed throughout your life in order to maintain oral health and prevent tooth loss.
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an inflammation and infection of the gum and bone around the teeth. Gingivitis, periodontitis and recession are types of gum disease. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Gum disease is usually caused by bacteria on your teeth that is not removed in a timely manner. You can reduce your risk of gum disease by brushing twice and flossing once every day. You should also have a dental exam and professional cleaning at least twice each year. Most people who have gum disease require specialist level cleanings (periodontal cleanings) as opposed to the general cleanings that you would get at a family / general dental office.
GINGIVITIS does not hurt but may include a variety of mild to moderate symptoms, such as:
- Red, swollen gums
- Sensitive teeth (due to gum recession)
- Sensitive gums when probed
- Gums bleeding from normal brushing or eating
- Chronic halitosis (bad breath)
PERIODONTITIS is a more advanced form of gum disease where gums begin to pull away from teeth, creating “pockets” along the gum line. As periodontitis painlessly progresses, the teeth become loose and tooth loss occurs.
Common risk factors for gum disease include poor oral hygiene habits, diabetes, smoking, hormonal changes, genetics, and cardiovascular disease. Some medications can also increase your likelihood of developing gum disease. Many studies have found that untreated gum disease negatively impacts your overall health.
Periodontitis has been associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, pregnancy complications, kidney disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, COVID 19 Lung Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Prostate Health, Many Cancers, Crohn’s Disease, Sport Performance, Dental Caries, COPD, Cystic Fibrosis, Asthma, Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome.
The two main problems people with gum disease have are pockets and recession.
What Are Pockets?
Pockets refer to the space that develops between the teeth and gums as a result of gum detachment and bone loss. Pockets harbor harmful bacteria, leading to further damage to the gums and bone that support the teeth. Treatment for periodontal disease involves non surgical and surgical treatment, depending on the severity of disease.
What is Gum Recession?
Gum Recession is a form of periodontal disease where the gums start to die away from the teeth, exposing the root surface of the tooth / teeth. Exposed roots sometimes are sensitive and are prone to tooth decay, and other dental problems.
Gum recession only occurs in areas of your mouth where the gum tissue is thin to start with. Thick tissues generally do not recede. Thin tissues are weak and they tend to recede over time. THICK = GOOD. THIN = BAD. This is the key to treating / preventing recession.
Treatment for recession depends on the severity and cause of the condition. It may involve deep cleaning, gum grafting, or other procedures to restore gum tissue and protect the teeth and bone from further damage. Early detection and treatment of recession can help prevent more serious dental problems in the future.