Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common dental issue that can negatively impact your oral health. There are two main forms of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease characterized by gums that are red, swollen, and/or receding. When gingivitis is not successfully treated, then it can develop into periodontitis, which is an advanced form of gum disease. In addition to affecting the gums, periodontitis also affects the other periodontal structures such as the tissues and bone that hold the teeth in place. Once gum disease has progressed to periodontitis, it cannot be reversed and requires treatment to prevent it from getting worse and causing tooth loss.
Did You Know?
Around 80% of the population is affected by some form of gum disease and many don’t even know they have it. This is especially problematic since gum disease is responsible for up to 70% of adult tooth loss.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I have gum disease?
Only an experienced dentist can properly diagnose gum disease through a careful examination. With that being said, however, you may be affected by gum disease if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Red, swollen gums
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing, flossing, or eating
- Sore or tender gums
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
- Tooth sensitivity
- Pain while chewing
To have your gums examined for gum disease, schedule a consultation with Dr. Guirguis today.
How does gum disease affect my oral and overall health?
In the early stages, you may not even notice the effects of gum disease. However, as the disease progresses it can have serious implications on both your oral and overall health. In regards to your oral health, gum disease can drastically increase the risk of tooth loss and jawbone deterioration. Additionally, the bacteria that causes gum disease has been found to enter the bloodstream and cause complications in other areas of the body. Specifically, gum disease has been associated with contributing to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, premature births, and low birth weight.
What can I expect when being treated for gum disease?
There are two main approaches to treating gum disease. The first is through prevention and the second is through managing the condition. Both methods utilize good oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and attending regular dental cleanings. The main difference between the two is that people who are managing their gum disease may require more frequent and/or specialized dental cleanings that focus on removing bacteria from the gum pockets. In some cases, Dr. Guirguis may also recommend special toothbrushes, toothpastes, rinses, or prescription medications to assist with treatment.
