According to the CDC, researchers have uncovered potential links between gum disease and other severe health conditions. When the gums are swollen, the lining becomes ulcerated, and the gums are prone to bleed even with gentle brushing and flossing. Follow your dentist’s recommended schedule for regular checkups.
When it comes to oral health, gingivitis is often the first sign that something may be going wrong. Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease that causes irritation, redness, and swelling of your gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more serious condition known as periodontitis, which can lead to irreversible damage to the gums and bones that support your teeth.
As a result, the bone and ligaments become damaged and destroyed, if the disease is left untreated it can lead to tooth loss. If you develop symptoms of gum disease, such as red, sore or bleeding gums, schedule an appointment with a dentist right away. Early intervention is key to getting your oral health back on track. The longer you wait, the more advanced the disease will become.
Trench mouth is rare today in developed nations, though it’s common in developing countries that have poor nutrition and poor living conditions. During this earliest stage of gum disease, your gum tissue becomes inflamed by bacteria that aren’t being removed during your oral care process. The tissue damage can also make the gum pockets deeper.
The fabric holds the space open so that new bone can grow. The periodontist places gum grafts over spots where your own gums have receded. They take a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth or from a donor and attach it to the exposed tooth roots to cover them.
Daily flossing gets plaque out of places your toothbrush can’t reach. You can also try interdental cleaners, picks, or small brushes that fit in between teeth. Ask your dentist how to use them so you don’t damage your gums. Your dentist may refer you to a gum specialist called a periodontist for more tests and treatment. The dentist or periodontist uses a small ruler called a periodontal probe to measure the pockets around your teeth. It starts with mild swelling and redness of the gums and can lead to bone damage and tooth loss.
Good oral hygiene and quick treatment can stop gingivitis and help preserve your teeth. At this stage, the early signs of periodontitis become apparent. There is generally no significant bone loss at this point.
Signs of Gingervitus
Bacteria can then become trapped in these pockets, weakening the bone supporting the teeth. Make sure to see your dental professional immediately if you notice any of these signs and symptoms to receive a proper assessment. If these symptoms persist, it’s important to talk with your dental professional to determine the best treatment option for you. Hallmark symptoms include red, bleeding and tender gums, loose teeth, bad breath and gum recession. You can’t cure periodontitis, but you can manage the condition with proper care and maintenance.
Some common signs of gingivitis include bleeding gums when you brush or floss, swollen or tender gums, bad breath, and receding gums. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Gingivitis can usually be reversed with proper oral hygiene habits and regular dental cleanings.
Progression to Gum Disease
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. At this stage, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that can become infected. The bacteria in these pockets can cause the bones and tissues that support the teeth to break down, leading to tooth loss.
It’s important to take gingivitis seriously and seek treatment before it progresses to gum disease. By practicing good oral hygiene habits and seeing your dentist regularly, you can prevent and even reverse the effects of gingivitis.
