However, having bad breath all the time may be a sign of poor oral health due to excessive bacteria, tooth decay, or even gum disease. Persistent bad breath is usually caused by the smelly gases released by the bacteria that coat your teeth, gums and tongue. As with the other warning signs, a dental consultation and treatment can help with persistently smelly breath and it’s causes.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that can lead to serious oral health problems if left untreated. But how does gum disease actually start?
While you can’t catch gum disease through brief casual contact, repeated and long-term contact through saliva (such as kissing) may increase your risk for periodontal disease. What it means is that chronically inflamed gum tissue is exposing the root surface of the tooth. This exposed root makes the tooth more susceptible to decay, abfraction (wear in the root surface), tooth sensitivity, and potential tooth loss. Options include nonsurgical treatments to control bacteria and surgery to fix the tissues that support your teeth. In some people, gum disease may affect only certain teeth, such as the molars. Only a dentist or periodontist can tell you for sure that you have gum disease.
These bacteria can then collect on the heart to cause endocarditis—which is most likely after a root scaling and planing. After the procedure, you will have reduced pockets, which makes it easier to maintain your oral health. A combination of professional maintenance and consistent home care of your teeth will help prevent the recurrence of this disease. This is the mildest form of gum disease and therefore does not result in any bone loss or connective tissue loss. The good news is this stage is completely reversible and you can usually correct it at home!
Dentin hypersensitivity, commonly referred as tooth sensitivity, can be caused by exposed teeth roots and thin tooth enamel (the hard covering that protects teeth). And in some cases, gum recession or pocketing can lead to unusually sensitive teeth. The gums cover the tooth roots, which have no enamel to protect them.
Gum disease is quite common but it doesn’t get better without improved oral hygiene habits and professional dental care. Usually, people with gum disease will see their gums begin to bleed when they brush and floss their teeth. If the problem continues, it leads to more inflammation and gums begin to recede. Pocket spaces form between the gum and the tooth, which may become sensitive.
The Early Stages
Gum disease typically begins with the accumulation of plaque on the teeth and along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth throughout the day. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, this plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning.
Gingivitis
As plaque and tartar build up along the gumline, they can irritate the gums, causing inflammation and tenderness. This early stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing.
Despite these warning signs, gingivitis is reversible with proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist for cleanings. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis occurs when the inflammation caused by gingivitis spreads deeper into the gums and begins to affect the surrounding bone and tissues that support the teeth. This can lead to pockets forming between the gums and teeth, allowing bacteria to thrive and further damage the gums and bone.
If left untreated, periodontitis can eventually lead to tooth loss and even impact your overall health. That’s why it’s important to recognize the early signs of gum disease and seek treatment promptly.
In conclusion, gum disease starts with the build-up of plaque and tartar along the gumline, leading to inflammation and eventual tissue and bone damage if not addressed. By practicing good oral hygiene habits and seeing your dentist regularly, you can help prevent gum disease and maintain a healthy smile.
