When it comes to oral health, gum disease is a common condition that affects many people. But how severe does it actually look? Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can range from mild inflammation of the gums to more severe cases that result in tooth loss. It’s important to understand the signs and symptoms of gum disease so that you can address it early on.
As mentioned earlier, there is an inflammatory marker called C-reactive protein (CRP) that increases when infection triggers your immune system. This inflammatory marker has also been linked to cardiovascular disease. Periodontal treatment has shown to decrease inflammation and thus decrease CRP. This is even higher in adults aged 65 and older, at about 70.1%. The same people at risk for pneumonia are typically those at risk for gum disease. Although it’s not clear if one causes or contributes to the other, they are closely connected.
She assists at a dental clinic while pursuing her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at NYU. You can follow her dental school adventures on Instagram. If you make small, conscious decisions every day, you can save your oral health. Dr. B created a great DIY recipe for toothpaste specifically for healthier gums. You can check it out and try it for yourself by reading this article. This includes cigarettes, cigars, “dip” or chewing tobacco, and hookah.
Signs of Gum Disease
In the early stages, called gingivitis, good oral hygiene can reverse some changes and prevent further deterioration. As the disease progresses, however, irreversible damage may occur. Often, symptoms of periodontitis do not appear until a later stage. For this reason, it is better to prevent it by practicing good oral hygiene and avoiding smoking. Many U.S. adults currently have some form of the disease. It ranges from simple gum inflammation, called gingivitis, to serious damage to the tissue and bone supporting the teeth.
Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing your teeth properly or regularly, can cause plaque to build up on your teeth. If you have severe gum disease, you’ll usually need to have further medical and dental treatment and, in some cases, surgery may need to be carried out. This will usually be performed by a specialist in gum problems (periodontics). Electric toothbrushes have become increasingly popular due to their efficacy and ease of use. Two standout models in my practice that have garnered attention are the Philips Sonicare 9000 and 9300 Electric Toothbrush.
That number jumps to around 70% for adults 65 years and over. You’ll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. On a greater scale, we are looking at 743 million people afflicted, according to the FDI World Dental Federation. I would classify this as sort of an epidemic, wouldn’t you?
They may depend on the type and extent of the procedure you have, and your overall health. You may have local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. If necessary, your dentist might give you meds to help you relax. If you don’t treat it, the infection can travel below your gumline and into your bone. Then it becomes a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. To diagnose gum disease, a dentist will examine your mouth for symptoms like tartar buildup, easy bleeding and receding gums.
One of the first signs of gum disease is red, swollen gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing. Another common symptom is persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth. As gum disease progresses, you may notice your gums pulling away from your teeth, loosening of teeth, or even changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite down.
Severity of Gum Disease
The severity of gum disease can vary depending on the individual and how well they take care of their oral hygiene. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease, which can be reversed with proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to irreversible damage to the gums and supporting bone structure.
It’s essential to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings to prevent gum disease or catch it early on before it becomes more severe. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene habits at home is crucial in preventing gum disease and keeping your smile healthy and bright!
