Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a serious infection that damages the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other health problems. It is important to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this common dental issue.
By Steven Lin, DDSSteven Lin, DDS, is a dentist, TEDx speaker, health educator, and author. Enter search terms to find related medical topics, multimedia and more. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Periodontitis can be stopped if caught and treated early enough. You’ll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox.
Causes of Gum Disease
For smaller spaces, products such as narrow picks with soft rubber bristles provide excellent manual cleaning. Persons with dexterity problems, such as with arthritis, may find oral hygiene to be difficult and may require more frequent professional care and/or the use of a powered toothbrush. Periodontal disease is usually painless, especially in the early stages. It’s important to know the warning signs so you can get appropriate treatment before the disease worsens.
The primary cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. When plaque builds up on your teeth, it can harden into tartar, which irritates the gums and leads to inflammation. Other factors that increase the risk of developing gum disease include smoking, hormonal changes, certain medications, and genetic predisposition.
At its earliest stage (gingivitis), gum disease is reversible. But the later stages (periodontitis) damage your gums and underlying bone. This results in gaps — or periodontal pockets — around your teeth, leading to further infection, loose teeth and even tooth loss.
A dentist can tell you if you have gum disease during a routine examination. They’ll look for plaque buildup on your teeth and ask you about your symptoms. They may refer you to a periodontist (gum specialist) for further evaluation and treatment. Almost half of all adults in the United States have some form of gum disease.
When the gums pull away from a tooth, they form spaces called gum pockets. At best, diligent oral hygiene might slow the destruction process. But professional treatment is the key to proper management and long-term oral health. Your dentist may also recommend antimicrobial mouthwash You swish this in your mouth as part of your daily brushing routine to help control bacteria. It’s available both by prescription and over the counter. Both gingivitis and periodontitis have been shown to raise your risk of things like diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, pneumonia, and cancer.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Early stages of gum disease may not present with noticeable symptoms, which is why regular dental check-ups are essential. As the disease progresses, you may experience symptoms such as:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Receding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose or shifting teeth
Treatment Options
If diagnosed with gum disease, your dentist will recommend a treatment plan based on the severity of your condition. Common treatment options include:
- Scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline
- Antibiotics to fight infection
- Surgical procedures such as flap surgery or bone grafts for advanced cases
Remember, early detection and treatment of gum disease are crucial for preventing further damage to your oral health.
