Gum Disease: Understanding, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease refers to the inflammation and infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It can start due to poor oral hygiene, but some individuals may be genetically predisposed to it. Poor hygiene leads to the buildup of dental plaque, which contains harmful bacteria that can cause gum problems. The progression of gum disease can result in gum recession, tooth loss, and other complications.

Symptoms and Stages of Gum Disease

Symptoms of gum disease may include red or purplish gums, bleeding, soreness, bad breath, unpleasant taste, pain when chewing, gum recession, loose teeth, and changes in the way your teeth fit together. There are four stages of gum disease: gingivitis (the earliest stage), mild periodontitis, moderate periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Early detection and treatment are crucial as the disease progresses gradually and may not cause pain initially.

Risk Factors and Complications

Several factors increase the risk of developing gum disease, such as smoking, poor oral hygiene, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, hormonal changes, stress, genetics, and heart disease. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to other health problems like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Diagnosis and Tests

Dentists can diagnose gum disease during a routine examination by looking for plaque buildup and asking about your symptoms. They may use a periodontal probe to measure the pockets around your teeth and take dental X-rays to assess bone loss. A referral to a periodontist might be necessary for a more detailed evaluation and treatment plan.

Management and Treatment Options

Although gum disease is not curable, it is manageable with appropriate treatment. For early-stage gum disease (gingivitis), routine dental cleaning and improved oral hygiene can reverse the condition. Other treatments include scaling and root planing for mild gum disease, pocket reduction surgery for moderate to advanced gum disease, bone grafts to replace lost bone, gum grafts to restore gum tissue, guided tissue regeneration, and the use of platelet-rich fibrin or plasma for enhanced healing.

Prevention and Outlook

Most cases of gum disease can be prevented with consistent and proper oral hygiene, including brushing teeth two to three times a day, flossing daily, using antibacterial mouthwash, avoiding smoking, and visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and exams. The outlook for gum disease is manageable with early detection and treatment, but it can lead to other health conditions if the infection spreads.

When to See a Dentist and Common Questions

If you experience bleeding, tender, or swollen gums, it's essential to see a dentist promptly. If diagnosed with gum disease, it's advisable to ask your periodontist questions such as the stage of the disease, the required treatment type (surgical or nonsurgical), sedation options, recovery time, when you can return to work or school, and the frequency of dental cleanings.