The dentist may recognize it as gum cancer right away or send you to a specialist to confirm the diagnosis. We went to head and neck surgeon Ryan Goepfert, M.D. Here’s what he shared about how to distinguish gum cancer from other common conditions, as well as what causes it and when to seek help. However, while people with gum disease may have an increased risk of these problems, there isn’t currently any clear evidence that gum disease directly causes them.
Your mouth is full of bacteria that combine with saliva to form a sticky film known as plaque, which builds up on your teeth. You should make an appointment to see your dentist if you think you may have gum disease or ANUG. Your breath usually doesn’t change much if you’ve got gingivitis. Many people go to the dentist regularly for check-ups rather than just when they have acute toothache.
Here your mouth is checked tooth by tooth for possible gum pockets using a special instrument called a periodontal probe. The dentist also looks for signs of bleeding, tartar (calculus), receding gums, and loose teeth. The point of flossing and brushing is to disturb the plaque and bacteria. If you do this, tartar (untreated and hardened plaque) will be less likely to attach to your teeth.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. It can vary in severity from mild inflammation to more serious conditions that can lead to tooth loss. One common question among those diagnosed with gum disease is, “How fast does gum disease spread?”
When symptoms of gingivitis resolve, an individual should have relatively normal-appearing gum structures. The American Dental Association suggests that the initial spread of those gingivitis-causing bacteria (and many others) spread from mothers to their children. Children by the age of 3 are about 26 times more likely to have gingivitis-causing bacteria such as A. Actinomycetemcomitans if their mothers have that strain of bacterium in their mouths.
Periodontitis, a type of gum disease, is severe inflammation of your gums, with symptoms that include red, bleeding or swollen gums. Treatment may involve deep dental cleaning or, in severe cases, surgery. Gum disease, also known as periodontitis or periodontal disease, is a serious dental condition that affects the tissues supporting the teeth. It is caused by the build-up of plaque and bacteria along the gum line, which can lead to inflammation and infection. If left untreated, gum disease can result in tooth loss and other complications that may affect your overall health.
Factors Affecting the Spread of Gum Disease
In the United States, HPAI A(H5N1) virus detections in mammals have been reported in more than 20 states. If a tooth infection does occur, a person should see their dentist or doctor immediately. If the infection has already spread, a person may need to extend the course of their antibiotic treatment. Alternatively, they may need to switch to a different type of antibiotic. The dentist will then fill the space with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Once the tooth has healed, they will restore it with a crown or a permanent filling to prevent further infections.
Several factors can influence how quickly gum disease progresses. These include poor oral hygiene, smoking, genetic predisposition, certain medications, and underlying health conditions like diabetes. Additionally, if left untreated, gum disease can rapidly advance from gingivitis (mild inflammation) to periodontitis (severe infection).
The Impact of Neglecting Treatment
Ignoring early signs of gum disease can have serious consequences. If not addressed promptly, the bacterial infection can spread deeper into the gums and bones supporting the teeth. This can lead to irreversible damage and tooth loss. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene practices are crucial in preventing the rapid spread of gum disease.
Preventive Measures and Treatment Options
Fortunately, gum disease can be treated and managed effectively if caught early. Dentists may recommend professional cleanings, scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or surgery in severe cases. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash, can also help prevent the rapid spread of gum disease. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to controlling the progression of this common dental condition.
