Gum Disease: Understanding Its Causes, Signs, and Prevention Strategies

Infections can develop in the tissues that hold your teeth in place, putting your smile at risk. This condition is known as periodontal disease, more commonly referred to as gum disease. It is most often caused by inadequate brushing and flossing habits, which allow sticky plaque to form a film on the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar.

While gum disease can have severe consequences, it is preventable. By understanding the causes of gum disease, how to spot early signs, and how to prevent this condition, you can maintain a healthy and beautiful smile for a lifetime.

What are the Most Common Causes of Gum Disease?

Most cases of gum disease begin with plaque. This film of bacteria and debris that forms on the teeth is typically removed when you brush and floss. However, plaque can continue to build up if you regularly forget to brush or neglect flossing.

In time, plaque hardens under the gumline into tartar, which is more difficult to remove. Tartar can only be effectively removed during a professional dental cleaning. As plaque is made up of bacteria, the longer it sits on the teeth, the more damage it can do.

Gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, can develop when plaque and tartar buildup gets out of control. This condition causes the gum tissue along the base of the teeth to become irritated and inflamed. While gum disease can often be reversed with good home oral care and professional treatment, getting early help is critical.

What Signs and Symptoms Should I Look for?

If you suspect you may have gum disease, knowing what signs and symptoms to look for is essential. Healthy gums are generally firm and fit snugly around the teeth. They can range from light pink to dark pink and sometimes brown. If you develop gum disease, you may experience a variety of symptoms.

One of the most common signs is the presence of puffy or swollen gums. Your gums may be dark or bright red or a purplish hue. They may also feel tender to the touch and bleed easily. You may develop other symptoms, such as chronic bad breath, painful chewing, gums that pull away from the teeth, a change in your bite, pus between the gums and teeth, and loose teeth.

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease or Recover from It?

Your dentist in Clermont, FL, can perform a routine examination to determine if you have gum disease. If diagnosed, treatment will depend on various factors, such as your general health, whether you smoke, and what treatments you’ve had in the past.

If you have early gum disease, a dental cleaning and improved hygiene practices may be enough to reverse the condition. As gingivitis has no bone loss yet, a conservative approach to treatment can help eliminate the harmful bacteria in the mouth before the disease spreads and the condition worsens.

Scaling and root planing may be recommended for more severe cases. This treatment involves cleaning deeper under the gums to remove plaque and bacteria in areas a toothbrush doesn’t typically reach. The procedure is usually performed with local anesthesia over two visits.

In severe cases of gum disease, bone grafting and gum grafting may be necessary to replace the bone you’ve lost and add thickness to the gum line. Although gum disease cannot be cured once you lose structural support around your teeth, it is manageable with the proper treatment.

Prevention is always recommended to avoid permanent damage to your teeth and gums. You can avoid developing gum disease by practicing basic oral hygiene, such as brushing at least twice daily, flossing daily, and swishing with mouthwash.

It’s also essential to visit your Clermont family dentistry office for an exam and professional cleaning every six months.

Trust Hancock Village Dental to Care for Your Smile

At Hancock Village Dental, we help patients of all ages maintain good oral health. Call our office at 352-989-5815 to learn more about our services or to schedule your next appointment.