You’re wondering how you can get gum disease, and probably how to prevent it. There’s good news – there is hope for your gums. Stop by our office for a checkup or cleaning and we will examine your teeth and gums, and give you treatment based on your unique condition.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease. It’s an infection of the tissue that supports your teeth. Periodontal disease is a common cause of tooth loss in adults and because it is usually painless you might not even know that you have it until it is too late.
When you visit Brookline Village Dental for regular checkups your dental hygienist may take certain measurements in the crevice between your teeth and gums (your sulcus) if there is any indication of gum disease.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that continually forms on your teeth. When it builds up between the teeth and gums it can create toxins that damage your gums.
Gum disease often begins just below the gum line, causing the tooth’s attachment and supporting tissue to break down. As your gums are damaged, the crevice between teeth and gums develop a pocket; generally speaking, the more advance the gum disease, the deeper the pocket is.
Periodontal disease is classified according to its severity, middle, moderate and severe.
Gingivitis is the early sign of potential gum disease.
Characteristics of gingivitis include red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Gingivitis is treatable and often reversible through proper brushing and flossing daily.
Periodontitis is a more advanced stage of gum disease.
Periodontitis affects the bone and gums that support your teeth. When these become seriously damaged, it can affect how well your teeth are anchored into place. If your gums are affected by periodontitis, your teeth can become loose, and may need to be removed.
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease.
- Systemic diseases such as diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Defective fillings
- Crooked teeth
- Some types of medications
- Tobacco chewing or smoking
If you have any of the following signs of periodontitis, we recommend you see a dentist as soon as possible.
- Loose or separating permanent teeth
- Pus between your gums and teeth
- Gums that are pulling away from your teeth
- Gums that bleed easily
It’s possible to have gum disease but see no warning signs.
Regular dental checkups and examinations are important to prevent gum disease. Your treatment will vary depending on what type of gum disease you have and how far your condition has progressed.
Good oral hygiene is imperative to preventing gum disease
To prevent gum disease from progressing or recurring, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene. When you visit us at Brookline Village Dental in Brookline, Massachusetts, we will teach you how to brush and floss properly to help maintain a healthy oral regimen so you can be sure you have a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Good Diet
Avoiding intake of sugar in certain food forms for example soda, candies, gum, breath mints, etc. will help prevent gum disease. Chronic intake of sugar is more damaging than the amount of sugar. Try to restrict sugar intake to dessert only.
