Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is an oral infection affecting the support of your teeth. It is caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth, which contains bacteria that infects the gums. If you have gum disease that goes untreated, it will eventually reach the advanced stages which eat away at the support of the teeth and bone, meaning it is more likely to affect various aspects of your life. Here’s what you need to know to prevent the negative effects of gum disease.
What is Periodontal Disease
Plaque is a sticky film made of food residue and bacteria that clings to the teeth. When plaque remains on the teeth for long enough without being brushed and flossed away, it hardens into calculus. The calculus harbors the bacteria and now simple brushing and flossing won’t remove the hard material. It also tends to work its way under your gums and form on the roots of your teeth. Periodontal disease is characterized by bleeding, swollen, and irritated gums, among other symptoms as the infection progresses.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
The 4 stages of periodontal disease are as follows:
- Gingivitis. The first stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums around your teeth. If your gums are red, tender, or bleed when you brush your teeth, you may have gingivitis. This is a sign that you need to be brushing and flossing your teeth more effectively. A dentist/ hygienist may need to more thoroughly clean the bacteria off the teeth. Gingivitis can clear up with improvements to your oral hygiene routine.
- Early periodontitis. When gingivitis goes untreated it can progress to early stage periodontitis. The gums may start to pull away from the teeth in this stage, forming pockets between the gums and teeth where more bacteria can gather, making the infection worse. The gums may also recede as the support is compromised.
- Moderate periodontitis. As periodontitis progresses to the moderate stage, gum recession becomes worse and more bone loss occurs, leaving the teeth inadequately supported. It is common to experience loose teeth in this state of periodontal disease.
- Advanced periodontitis. In the advanced stage of periodontitis, tooth loss is common and painful abscesses may form around the teeth. The infection spreads to the surrounding tissues.
The Negative Effects of Periodontal Disease
Tooth loss, bad breath, and other symptoms of advanced periodontal disease can affect various aspects of your life.
- Personal life. Bad breath and missing teeth can negatively affect your relationships and social life. Teeth can shift as they loose their support leading to an unattractive smile. Eating ability can become compromised and uncomfortable
- Professional life. Your professional life may also be affected, limiting your career opportunities and connections with your coworkers.
- Overall health and wellness. Diabetes, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, lung disease, and even cancer have been linked to periodontal disease.
- Financial situation. Treatment for gum disease and replacement of lost teeth can be costly. Your financial situation may be affected by the disease.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Disease
Why do you lose teeth with advanced periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease causes damage to the gum tissue and jaw bone. The teeth eventually fall out due to lack of support and infection.
Can gum disease be cured?
Periodontal disease and the infection issue can be addressed and typically brought under control. Proper, regular professional care as well as effective home care is required. If the natural teeth can no longer be retained due to advanced bone loss, an implant option for tooth replacement is a strong consideration.
Who Treats Periodontal Disease?
Early stage periodontal disease can be treated by your dentist. But if the infection has progressed to the moderate or advanced stage, you may need the expertise of a periodontist. A periodontist specializes in treatments for the support structures for your teeth, which includes your gums. Progressive Periodontics & Implant Dentistry can not only treat your existing gum disease, but repair the residual damage and help to prevent recurrences.
Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.