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#The Silent Threat of Gum Disease and How to Stop It
**Gum disease**, also known as gingivitis, is a common threat that often goes unnoticed until it has already begun to take its toll. Over 47% of adults over the age of 30 suffer from some level of **gum disease**, making it one of the most widespread oral health issues. However, with diligent home care and professional treatment, the progression of gum disease can be stopped or even reversed.
##What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease refers to any inflammation or infection that damages the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. Gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease, occurs when bacteria accumulate on the teeth and infect the gums. The gums become irritated, red, swollen and prone to bleeding. At this stage the disease is reversible, but if left unchecked, periodontitis, or advanced gum disease, can develop. In periodontitis, inflammation spreads throughout the area causing pockets to form between the teeth and gums. These pockets then fill with more bacteria and toxic enzymes which slowly dissolve the connective tissues holding the teeth in place. This is when teeth can become mobile, fall out or require extraction.
##Are My Gums Healthy?
The early symptoms of gingivitis are mild and many people don’t notice them. Some early signs include:
- Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
- Red or swollen gums
- Gums that have receded, exposing more of the tooth surface
- Persistent bad breath
As periodontitis develops, the symptoms become more severe:
- Gums that bleed easily without any pressure
- Pain or discomfort when chewing
- Loose or separating teeth
- Changes in tooth alignment
- Pus discharge between teeth and gums
If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to get a periodontal evaluation to determine if gum disease is present.
##Risk Factors
A variety of risk factors make certain people more prone to gum disease than others. The potential causes include:
- Poor oral hygiene - Not adequately brushing and flossing on a daily basis to remove harmful plaque on teeth.
- Smoking or tobacco use - Restricts blood flow, increasing infection risks.
- Crooked teeth or poorly fitted dental work - Makes it harder to keep teeth clean.
- Stress, hormonal changes or chronic illness - Can lower the body's ability to fight infection.
- Medications - Some medicines reduce saliva flow which naturally rinses bacteria away.
- Genetics - Researchers have identified genetic factors that can increase susceptibility.
The more risk factors that are present, the higher the likelihood of developing gum problems.
##End Stages of Gum Disease
The final stage of **gum disease** is called advanced periodontitis. At this point, the gums have detached from the teeth creating expanding areas infected pockets. The loose teeth become a focus of infection and abscesses can form at the tooth roots as a defensive reaction. This infection harms surrounding bones and soft tissue. Inflammation can spread systemically, increasing problems throughout the body. Diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease and pregnancy complications have all been linked to uncontrolled gum disease.
At advanced stages, procedures like deep periodontal cleanings, tissue or bone grafting, guided tissue regeneration and intraoral plastic surgery may be necessary to stimulate regeneration and restore stability. Extraction of teeth that are too damaged to save and dental implants may also be needed. Leaving periodontitis untreated could result in pain, disfigurement and loss of permanent teeth.
##Preventing Gum Disease
The key to beating **gum disease** is prevention. Halting gingivitis before it evolves into the more destructive periodontitis is possible through excellent oral care and smart lifestyle habits:
##Oral Hygiene
- Brush teeth for two minutes twice per day using proper technique
- Floss thoroughly every night to clean between teeth
- Use antibacterial mouthwash to kill germs brushing and flossing miss
- Clean or replace toothbrush monthly
- Have regular dental cleanings and exams
##Smart Lifestyle Choices
- Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
- Decrease stress with exercise, social connection and fulfillment
- Improve nutrition with more fruits, vegetables and antioxidants
- Stabilize blood sugar if diabetic
- Practice healthy sleep habits
##Professional Gum Disease Treatment
Even with diligent oral self-care, **gum disease** may still develop due to individual biology, genetics or other factors. This means visiting dental professionals for regular check ups is crucial. During a comprehensive exam, your dentist or hygienist can diagnose gingivitis early and begin treatment immediately before substantial damage occurs.
Initial gum disease therapy generally includes a deep cleaning procedure to eliminate bacterial biofilm below the gum line where toothbrushes can’t reach. Powerful disinfectants may be applied beneath the gums to reduce swelling and halt the disease process. Further options like antibacterial medication, laser therapy or gum grafts can boost healing. Customized home care instructions will also be provided.
Following up with the advised treatment regimen speeds recovery. Your teeth and gums will be examined again a few weeks later to confirm infection clearance and assess improvement. From there, ongoing maintenance therapy is scheduled every three to four months to sustain gum health. This regular professional care, in conjunction with meticulous daily self-care, offers the best chance for keeping gum disease stabilized or eliminated.
##Protect Your Oral Wellness
Although gum disease is wide-spread, its progression into severely damaging periodontitis can be prevented. Pay close attention for early warning signs of gingivitis, and contact your dental office promptly if you notice any unusual gum issues. Consistently practicing excellent oral hygiene and working closely with your dentist and hygienist will enable you to maintain healthy gums and teeth for life!
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