It may surprise you to learn that almost half of all adults in the United States have some form of gum disease. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss and contributes to other serious health conditions. The good news is that gum disease develops slowly and progresses over time, and in the earliest stages it can be reversed and treated before severe damage is done. Below is more information on what gum disease is and how to know if you should be worried about your gum health.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, clinically called periodontal disease, refers to an infection of the gum tissues that support your teeth. Gum disease is caused by many different things. For some people, genes play a significant role in gum disease by influencing how their immune system responds to bacteria. For most people, however, poor oral hygiene is the main cause of gum disease. When daily brushing and flossing are neglected, plaque builds up over time. Plaque is filled with bacteria that eventually infect the gums and cause gum disease.
Other factors that contribute to gum disease include:
- Smoking or other tobacco use
- Diabetes
- Autoimmune diseases
- Hormonal changes
- Stress
- Heart disease
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Fortunately, gum disease can be reversed or treated if identified early. If you are concerned about your gum health, you should watch for these common symptoms of gum disease, including:
- Reddish or purplish gums
- Bleeding gums
- Sore or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Unpleasant taste
- Pain when chewing
- Gum recession (gums that pull away from your teeth)
What should you do if you are worried about your gum health?
If you are worried about your gum health, start by focusing on your oral hygiene. The best first step is to schedule a visit with your dentist for a comprehensive oral exam and a professional dental cleaning. For people with early periodontal disease, this routine exam and cleaning may be enough to reverse course. The right treatment for you will depend on the severity of your gum disease and a number of other factors, including:
- Your overall health
- Whether you smoke
- Your oral hygiene routine
Can I prevent gum disease?
If you visit your dentist and they confirm you do not have gum disease yet, you can prevent it with consistent and proper oral hygiene. If you are more prone to gum disease because of genetics or other health conditions, your dental provider can help assess your risk and may suggest more frequent cleanings with a professional dental hygienist. You can take the following steps to prevent gum disease in the future:
- Brush your teeth at least twice every day
- Floss between your teeth daily
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash
- Avoid smoking and other tobacco use
- Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and exams
If you have recently started to worry about your gum health, that is a good sign. It means you are paying attention. Healthy gums are essential to your oral health and your long-term health and well-being. Talk with your dentist to understand where your current gum health stands and what you can do to improve it.