Gum disease or periodontal disease refers to the infection and inflammation of gums and supporting structures of teeth. It occurs due to the accumulation of plaque which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Plaque left as it is, hardens and forms tartar. If not treated on time, it can progress from milder form gingivitis to the more severe form known as periodontitis.

At Universal Smiles Dental we prioritize not just the beauty of your smile, but also the health of your gums. This is because they are the foundation of healthy teeth. Periodontitis is a very common yet overlooked disease. In the following blog post we will discuss the types of gum disease, their causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention tips.

Types of gum disease

1. Gingivitis: This is the earliest stage of a gum disease. Characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed on brushing or flossing. It is usually reversible with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.
2. Periodontitis: This is an advanced stage of disease. It usually occurs when gingivitis has been left untreated for a long period of time. Leads to the destruction of surrounding bone and tissue around the teeth. Is further divided into 3 types:

Chronic: Typically found in older adults, results in gradual loss of supporting tissue. Aggressive: Found in younger individuals and causes rapid loss of surrounding tissue. Necrotizing: Third and most dangerous type, since it causes the necrosis of gum tissue.

What causes gum disease?

Understanding the cause of a disease is crucial not just for the treatment but also to prevent future problems. The most important contributing reason is poor oral hygiene. Inadequate brushing and flossing habits lead to plaque buildup. Frequent smoking and tobacco use is another factor. Certain chronic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular ailment and autoimmune disorders can make gums more susceptible to inflammation. A diet lacking in essential nutrients can also compromise oral health.

A family history of gum disease may make the person more susceptible to this condition. Even some medications that are known to dry mouth can become a reason for this. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can make gums sensitive to inflammation.

Symptoms of periodontitis

Recognizing the symptoms in early stages will take less invasive procedures to correct the problem. Usually gums may appear red and darker than normal due to inflammation. Bleeding may be noticed whenever you brush or floss your teeth. Persistent bad breath also known as halitosis is also an alarming sign of this condition. Teeth may appear longer as the gums start to recede. Advanced periodontitis can

even loosen your teeth due to loss of supporting bone. An immediate sign for concern would be pus between teeth and gums.

Diagnosis

Our professional dentists at Universal Smiles Dental use a comprehensive approach to diagnose your issue. First and foremost we will conduct a thorough clinical examination. This is where we will assess the general condition of your teeth and gums, checking for signs of bleeding, inflammation or recession.

Then an x-ray would be taken to check the surrounding bone. Next comes periodontal pocketing, this involves measuring the depth of the gum around each tooth. Deeper the pocket the more severe the disease.

Treatment

Treating periodontitis depends upon its severity. At Universal Smiles Dental, we offer various effective treatment options. One of the Non-surgical approaches includes scaling/ periodontal debridement.. This is a deep cleaning procedure carried out to remove plaque buildup from above and below the gum line. It also smooths out rough spots on the roots of teeth, making it harder for bacteria to accumulate. Other than scaling, your dentist may prescribe you antibiotics to help with the bacterial infection. Our team will also provide personalized guidance on effective brushing and flossing techniques as part of your daily routine.

Surgical approaches are carried out when non surgical methods are not sufficient enough. Flap surgery or pocket reduction surgery involves lifting the gums back to remove tartar buildup and then suturing them back in place. Another method is bone grafting. This is performed to regenerate lost bone tissue when periodontitis has caused significant bone loss. Guided tissue regeneration can also be done to encourage bone and tissue growth by placing a special membrane between bone and tissue. Soft tissue grafts can help restore gum tissue in case of recession.

Tips for prevention

Some tips for preventing periodontitis are as follows:

• Good oral hygiene practices like brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing to remove plaque buildup between teeth.
• Regular dental checkups and cleanings at Universal Smiles Dental are essential for catching issues early.
• Quit smoking and tobacco use.
• Eat a healthy balanced diet. Avoid junk food and sugary items.
• Manage conditions like diabetes and heart problems by following a healthy lifestyle.
• Drink plenty of water.

Ending note

At Universal Smiles Dental, we firmly believe that informed patients make the best decisions about their health. Understanding oral health issues like periodontitis and being aware of the risk factors and symptoms is crucial for preventing and treating it. By practicing good oral hygiene habits and getting regular checkups, you can easily avoid this. If you suspect you may have gum disease or if it’s been a while since your last dental visit, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our dedicated team is here to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Together, we can ensure that your smile lasts a lifetime.

Frequently asked questions

1.       How does diet impact oral health?

A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support healthier oral tissues.

2.       How often should I visit my dentist for check-ups?

Regular visits, typically every six months, can help catch issues early.

3.       When should I see a dentist about my oral health?

If you notice persistent discomfort, changes in taste or any other concerning symptoms, it’s best to seek professional advice.

4.       What role does smoking play in oral health?

Smoking can significantly increase the risk of inflammation and hinder healing.