What is Gum Disease?
12:00 PM
Periodontal (gum)
disease is one of America's most common health problems, with nearly 50% of
adults over the age of 30 suffering from or having experienced it some degree.
Despite this high prevalence, prevention is as simple as maintaining an
effecting oral hygiene routine at home and regularly visiting the dentist for
cleanings.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease
develops in three stages, beginning with the accumulation of plaque on the
teeth. This sticky, naturally occurring substance is deposited on the teeth by
oral bacteria that feed on sugars and carbohydrates. Daily brushing and
flossing prevent excessive plaque accumulation, which otherwise could lead to
the progression of gum disease as follows:
1.
The
first stage of gum is gingivitis, which develops as plaque deposits
harden into tartar, and pockets of bacteria begin to grow at the gumline. Over
time, the build-up of bacteria, plaque, and tartar causes irritation and
infection at the gumline.
2.
In
stage two, periodontitis develops. The pockets of bacteria start to work
their way below the gumline, infecting the deep connective tissues that hold
the teeth in place.
3.
The
final stage of gum disease is advanced periodontitis, where severe damage
to the tissue and supporting jaw bone causes the teeth to become loose and fall
out.
During the
initial phase of gingivitis, the disease can be reversed with an aggressive
hygiene routine. However, if the disease progresses to the next stage where
periodontal pockets are created, patients often require a more extensive
treatment as well as the development of a maintenance plan in order to protect
the individual’s oral health and prevent recurrence.
A Silent Oral Disease
Gum disease
is often a silent disease in that many people do not have symptoms that clearly
point to its presence. In fact, the early stages of gum disease are
asymptomatic, with no noticeable changes in the mouth until gingivitis
develops.
This is just
one reason why it's so important to establish a good oral health routine at
home—with twice-daily brushing and daily flossing—and to see your dentist
regularly for professional cleaning. Gum disease can cause severe oral health
problems which can in turn affect your overall health. However, with effective
oral healthcare measures both at home and from your dentist, it's a problem
that can easily be kept at bay.
Additionally,
being able to recognize the signs of progressing gum disease can help patients
prevent the long term consequences associated with the condition by seeking
medical attention when they first recognize symptoms.
If you think
you may be exhibiting signs of gum disease, schedule an appointment at Light
Dental Studios – Puyallup today. Our Puyallup dentists can help you regain your
long-term oral health.
0 comments