Gum disease, also known as periodontitis in its most serious form, is a condition impacting 47% of U.S. adults over the age of 30 and nearly 70% of adults over the age of 65. Considering how prevalent it is, it helps to know what it is and how to prevent it. If you have a bit of pink in the sink when brushing your teeth or your gums feel tender, that’s an indication you may be struggling with gum disease. The first forms of it, called gingivitis, are still worrisome and require treatment.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease occurs when there is inflammation or damage to the gums in the mouth. Most begin to see damage with the onset of gingivitis. Periodontitis is a serious form of this condition that’s brought on by a bacterial infection. It starts off with inflammation along the tissues that surround the teeth and hold them in place. Over time, the bacterial infection spreads, damaging the gums and, eventually, causing tooth and jaw bone damage if left untreated.
Though this condition is more common in people who are older, it can begin as a less serious form of gum disease and worsen over time. The key here is that there are gum disease treatment options, and it can be prevented.
You may have this condition if you have the following:
- Red gums
- Tender or painful gums
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
- Swollen gums
- Easy-to-bleed gums
- Infections
- Pain when chewing
What Are Gum Disease Treatment Options?
The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, in which the gums are red and swollen, but there’s no damage to the bone or teeth just yet. This condition is very much reversible with a proper, professional dental cleaning and improved oral hygiene, like brushing your teeth on a routine basis.
As the condition worsens to mild periodontitis and then moderate and severe forms, gum disease treatment needs to be more invasive but can still be treated. In these stages, there may be the need for antibiotics as well as a treatment called scaling and root planning. Also known as a deep dental cleaning, this method removes a lot of the bacteria and plaque buildup that occurs as this disease progresses. In some situations, the condition will improve but not be cured.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
The prevention of gum disease is the key since treating periodontitis is far more challenging over the long term. In fact, periodontitis cannot be cured. How can you prevent gum disease?
- Brush your teeth using an electric toothbrush at least twice a day.
- Visit your dentist at least one time every six months for a dental cleaning.
- Use mouthwashes that help to control bacteria growth.
- If you’re prone to gum disease due to family history or previous instances of gingivitis, have more frequent dental cleanings.
- Get treatment for any type of early stage gum disease quickly.
Gum disease is a condition that can lead to a serious infection that damages your oral health and smile. Yet, early stage treatment can be very effective.