What is Gum disease?

Gum disease — also called periodontal disease — refers to inflammation(swelling) and infection of the tissues that support your teeth. Dirt on teeth or poor oral hygiene can result in gum disease. But some people are more prone to this condition than others are, even with proper brushing and flossing.

What are the Signs of gum disease?

Gum disease presents with the following signs and symptoms;

• Swollen gums
• Reddish or purplish gums
• Bleeding
• Soreness
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Unpleasant taste
• Pain when chewing
• Gum recession (gums that pull away from your teeth)
• Loose teeth
• A gradual change in the spacing of the teeth 

 Stages of gum disease

Healthy gums are firm to the touch. They don’t bleed or swell. But gum disease can cause discolored (reddish or purplish), swollen, bleeding gums. Left untreated, gum disease can cause destruction of your underlying jawbone, leading to possible tooth loss.

The breakdown of the supporting structures or your teeth happens gradually. In fact, most people don’t experience pain with gum disease — especially during the early stages. So, it’s important to know the warning signs.

There are four stages of gum disease:

• Gingivitis (Gum swelling). This is the earliest stage of gum disease. It starts with red, puffy gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. At this stage, there’s no bone loss. As a result, gingivitis is totally reversible with proper treatment.
• Mild periodontitis. The bacteria have seeped beneath your gums, affecting the supporting bone. Your gums may pull away from your teeth, creating pockets around them. Plaque and bacteria like to hide in these pockets, where your toothbrush and floss can’t reach.
• Moderate periodontitis. Left untreated, bacteria begin to erode the ligaments, soft tissues and bone that hold your teeth in place. You may notice bad breath and pus (infection) around your gum line at this stage. Some people develop pain as well.
• Advanced periodontitis. As gum disease worsens, bone loss continues. This causes your teeth to become loose and eventually fall out.

When treated early enough, gum disease is reversible. But if you’ve already lost bone around your teeth due to infection, the disease is too advanced to reverse. However, you can manage it with proper treatment and consistent, diligent oral hygiene.

What are the complications of periodontal disease?

Unless you get treatment, gum disease continues to worsen, wreaking havoc on your oral health. It leads to a vicious cycle of infection that eventually leads to tooth loss.

When should I see a dentist?

If you develop bleeding, tender or swollen gums you should see a dentist as soon as possible. Early detection is key. The dentist will examine your gums and teeth, and manage the cause appropriately before the disease worsens.

Visit SKYHILL Dental Care today or book an appointment for periodic teeth cleaning and other gum disease treatments, our friendly and experienced team of dentists will be at your service.