Unfortunately, early gum disease, often called gingivitis, may be asymptomatic, or the changes are so gradual that you’ll dismiss them as something else. For example, bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis, but they may also indicate you’re brushing or flossing too aggressively. You may dismiss this issue or others out of hand.
Of course, there are symptoms of gingivitis, but the best defense is always regular dental care. With twice-yearly checkups and teeth cleanings, your dentist can find gum disease in its earliest reversible stage. Likewise, your hygienist can remove debris from your teeth and gums that can cause complications, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, infections, and tooth decay.
This blog covers the early signs of gum disease and more, including:
- Understanding the Enemy: What Is Gum Disease?
- Don’t Ignore the Warnings: Early Signs of Gingivitis
- When Gingivitis Progresses: Signs of Periodontitis
- Why You Might Be at Risk: Contributing Factors
- The Importance of Professional Checkups
- Your Role in Preventing Gum Disease
- Taking Action: What to Do If You Notice Signs
Understanding the Enemy: What Is Gum Disease
Gum disease is a progressive oral health condition that starts as the tamer gingivitis.
When gum disease in High Point advances to periodontitis, it truly is an enemy, putting your teeth and general health at serious risk.
Strong clinical evidence and studies link untreated periodontitis to:
- Heart health issues
- Lung health issues
- Pancreatic issues in men
- Pregnancy complications
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Alzheimer’s disease
The Stages of Gum Disease
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis means you have inflammation and infections in the soft tissues that help support your teeth. In this early stage, the infections have not penetrated the bone.
- Periodontitis: When your High Point dentist does not address gingivitis, the infections penetrate the bone and invade the ligaments that support your teeth. This stage is not curable, but treatment is vital to mitigate the risks of oral and physical complications.
Don’t Ignore the Warnings: Early Signs of Gingivitis
Gingivitis and periodontitis symptoms overlap, so be on the lookout for the following:
- Bleeding gums, especially when brushing and flossing
- Gum changes, including color changes, irritation, and recession
- Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
Remember, you may not have every symptom of gingivitis to be diagnosed, which is why regular checkups and excellent oral hygiene are vital.
When Gingivitis Progresses: Signs of Periodontitis
The signs of periodontitis are similar to those found in gingivitis. However, in periodontitis, the symptoms are harder to dismiss. You’ll notice bleeding gums when brushing and flossing, more pronounced gum changes, and worsening bad breath. Because periodontitis penetrates the bones and ligaments, you may also discover loose, shifting, or mobile teeth.
Why You Might Be at Risk: Contributing Factors
Of course, the significant risk factor in gum disease is a lack of appropriate dental care and oral hygiene. However, these are not the only contributing factors.
Contributing gum disease risk factors include:
- Genetics: A family history or predisposition to gum disease.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, such as those associated with pregnancy, can increase the risk of gum disease.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled insulin or diabetes is a known risk factor.
- Smoking: Tobacco use in any form heightens your gum disease risk.
The Importance of Professional Checkups
Even if you check all the boxes and identify with every risk factor, regular dental care can significantly lower your odds of developing gingivitis and periodontitis.
Most dentists recommend twice-yearly checkups and teeth cleanings. This means your dentist evaluates your periodontal health every six months as part of your routine checkup, which includes an oral cancer screening, a visual exam, and x-rays as needed.
Additionally, our hygienist removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums to help prevent complications such as gingivitis, tooth decay, and infections.
Your toothbrush and dental floss alone cannot remove tartar and clear bacteria from hard-to-reach areas. Only a dental professional can do that, which underscores the importance of dental exams and cleanings. So, even if you brush and floss after every meal, it is not enough to prevent gum disease. Proper protection means a collaboration between you and our dental team.
Your Role in Preventing Gum Disease
In addition to seeing your dentist every six months, be sure to adopt and implement excellent at-home care. Ideally, you should brush and floss after every meal, but at least twice daily (and always once before bedtime).
When you brush and floss, it's essential to dedicate time to your smile. Shoot for at least two minutes of brushing and a minute or so of flossing.
Brushing Your Teeth
Brush in a circular motion using a soft-bristled toothbrush approved by the American Dental Association. Be sure to brush firmly but not aggressively; gentle pressure is best. When brushing, clean all surfaces, including the back of your teeth, and remember to brush your tongue as well.
Flossing Your Teeth
Never force your floss or tug in tight spaces. Also, use fresh lengths of flossing string for every pass. Otherwise, you are moving debris around instead of clearing it away.
Curb Unhealthy Habits
If you smoke or use tobacco, consider quitting. If you indulge in sugary and acidic foods and drinks, consider cutting back or adding an additional brushing and flossing session to your routine. If you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about a nightguard.
Talk to Your Dentist
If you notice any changes in your oral health between checkups and teeth cleanings, it’s essential to contact our dental team for guidance. Changes may be subtle, but if you have sores that don’t heal, bleeding gums, recurring bad breath, or other concerns, we want to hear from you as soon as possible.
Taking Action: What to Do If You Notice Signs
If you notice signs of gum disease in High Point, contact your dentist to schedule an evaluation. Even if you’ve neglected dental care and feel insecure about your smile, we urge you to call. Our compassionate team does not judge. We understand dental fears and phobias!
If we diagnose you with gum disease, the dentist will prescribe a gum disease treatment plan to address your level of disease. Are you wondering what to expect with gum disease treatment? Treatment may include deep cleanings below the gumline, topical antibiotics, and specific instructions for home care.
For Gum Disease Treatment in High Point, Contact Us
If you suspect gingivitis or it's time for your next dental checkup and teeth cleaning, call us at (336) 883-1371 to get started. You can also ask a team member about our membership plan!