Swollen gums are the first sign of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis may advance to periodontitis where the gums pull away from teeth and form bigger spaces (called pockets) that become infected. The bacteria in these pockets release toxins that destroy the bones and fibers that support the teeth, causing them to loosen and eventually fall out.
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Pain or discomfort can signal the onset of periodontal disease. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, causes red, puffy, and bleeding gums that may ache when touched. This is a reversible condition that can be reversed with proper oral hygiene and routine dental cleanings.
Gingivitis causes pockets to form around the teeth, which fill with bacteria. Over time, the toxins created by these bacteria destroy the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place. As the disease progresses, these pockets deepen, making it harder for a toothbrush or floss to reach the bacteria. As more bone and tissue are lost, the teeth become loose, and eventually fall out.
To prevent the progression of periodontitis, brush and floss twice a day. Rinsing with lukewarm salt water several times per day can reduce bacteria and soothe inflamed gums. Oil pulling, where a small amount of oil is swirled in the mouth for 20 to 30 minutes, can also reduce bacteria and plaque levels. Avoiding smoking and other modifiable risk factors, like diabetes and pregnancy, can lower your chances of getting periodontitis.
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Bleeding gums are a common problem associated with periodontal disease. It is caused by inflammation and infection of the soft tissue that supports your teeth. It is the most significant cause of tooth loss in adults. It may also be an indicator of more serious health problems such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
The first phase of gum disease is gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily when touched. Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral care, and it usually causes little or no pain.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to the more severe stage of periodontitis. The gum tissue becomes loose, and pockets form between the teeth and the gums. These pockets fill with bacteria and release toxins that destroy the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place. This is the main reason for tooth loss in people with gum disease. It can also have a negative effect on the health of other systems of the body such as the cardiovascular system and the kidneys.
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Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, may be a warning sign of periodontal disease. The bacteria that cause gum disease rot tissue in the mouth, leaving behind foul-smelling toxins. These toxins can be inhaled and cause damage to the lungs. Bacteria from the mouth can also get into the bloodstream and travel to other organs, causing infections or worsening existing ones. For example, untreated gum disease increases the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with cardiovascular disease.
Gum disease can progress to a severe stage called chronic periodontitis, which destroys the bone and tissue that support teeth. This can lead to loose and painful teeth that can fall out.
Educating patients on the connection between their gum health and their halitosis can help them be more compliant with oral hygiene regimens and treatment recommendations, as well as maintain routine dental cleaning appointments. This can help reduce the occurrence of bad breath and prevent further damage to the gums and bones. Periodontists are also trained to provide halitosis treatment, which can include a variety of methods to remove odor-causing bacteria.
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Gum disease symptoms include swollen gums, bleeding during brushing or flossing, loose teeth and changes in the way your teeth fit together when biting. If you notice these symptoms, schedule a dental exam immediately. A dentist or periodontist will diagnose the severity of your condition and recommend treatment.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease. In gingivitis, a sticky film of bacteria and food builds up on the teeth, irritating the gums. The body’s immune system responds to the irritation by creating pockets around the teeth, where bacteria gather. Over time, the pockets deepen and fill with bacteria. This triggers the release of toxins, which destroy the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place. The teeth become loose and may fall out.
Gum disease is linked to a number of other health problems. The bacteria that cause gum disease can travel from the mouth to other parts of the body, contributing to heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers. Research also suggests a link between gum disease and irritable bowel syndrome.
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Fortunately, gum disease is treatable with proper oral care and regular visits to your dental professional. During a dental checkup, your dentist can examine your gums for inflammation. They can use a dental probe, which is like a tiny ruler, to measure the depth of pockets around your teeth. Pockets that are 1 to 3 millimeters deep are normal; those deeper than that indicate a periodontal (gum) disease diagnosis. They may also take X-rays to see the extent of bone loss caused by gum disease.
Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. It is not painful at this stage, but it can advance to periodontitis if not treated.
Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of bacterial etiology that leads to the destruction of the periodontal tissue, alveolar bone, and other structures supporting the teeth. This destructive process is accelerated by poor oral hygiene, smoking, certain health conditions, and medications that reduce salivary flow. Treatment for periodontitis involves cleaning the teeth and removing the bacteria harbored in tartar deposits. A procedure called scaling and root planing removes the hardened tartar under the gum line, smoothes the damaged tooth roots, and delivers antibacterial medication into the pockets where the bacteria reside.