NATURE FOOLS the human mind when it comes to oral health problems. WHY? Thanks to our cheeks and lips, it is very hard to see what’s going on inside our mouths. That’s why most people tend not to be concerned about the health of their mouth until it is too late!
According to the most recent report from the CDC, 47% of adults aged 30 years have gum disease or beginning periodontal disease, and about 70.1% of adults 65 years and older have more advanced periodontal disease.
What is Gum disease?
Gums are part of the supporting tissue that surround our teeth and are extremely essential for a healthy oral cavity. When bacteria infects the gum tissue, it could lead to destruction of the gums causing bleeding, puffiness and recession.
What causes Gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by the plaque build-up on the gums which leads to an infection by harmful bacteria (See the above picture).
What are the warning signs of Gum disease?
There are several warning signs of gum disease which include inflamed gums, tooth sensitivity, gums pulling away from teeth (also called recession), painful teeth when chewing, change in the way you bite or change in the way your partial denture fits. If you are experiencing any of these problems, please contact Fords Family Dental Care at 732-738-9087 to make an appointment with our expert dental clinicians who can help you.
There are FOUR phases to periodontal disease which are a result of bacterial invasion into the gums and the bone that surround and support your teeth.
Along with this, there is also invasion of bacteria into the bloodstream therefore affecting the heart, lungs, brain and other organs. Studies have shown strong links between periodontal disease and heart, stomach, kidney problems, diabetes, premature birth, Alzheimer’s and many more systemic diseases.
Phase 1- Gingivitis
If your gums are inflamed, red and bleed when you floss or brush you may be suffering from gingivitis. This is the earliest stage of periodontal disease and at this stage, periodontal disease could be easily reversed.
Phase 2- Mild Periodontal Disease
This is the second stage that follows if gum disease is left untreated. At this stage the condition is not reversible but can definitely be managed if proper oral care is provided fast enough. At this stage, patients do not only experience swollen and bleeding gums but they also have pockets forming around their teeth which collect more plaque, leading to bone loss. This stage could be managed by deep cleaning which is often provided by a hygienist.
Phase 3- Moderate Periodontal Disease
This is the third stage of gum disease. It is much more advanced when compared to the previous two stages because bacteria has fully invaded the bone causing deeper pockets, irreversible bone loss and definite invasion of bacteria into the bloodstream. Patients may notice their teeth shifting or loosening along with gum recession.
Phase 4- Advanced Periodontal Disease
This is the fourth and most destructive stage of gum disease. The pocket depths and bone loss from previous stages becomes much worse at this stage and if proper treatment is not provided, there could be definite tooth loss.
Call Today!
If you are noticing the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease, you should seek treatment to make sure it is stopped before it can damage your smile. For proper treatment and care for periodontal disease, please contact Fords Family Dental Care at 732-738-9087 to make an appointment. Your smile will thank you!
Resources:
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2013, July 10). Periodontal disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved April 15, 2023, from
2. “Gum Disease Symptoms and Treatments” Illnesses and Conditions | NHS Inform