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Gum Disease 101: Understanding Periodontitis and Its Impact

What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis, also known as gum disease or periodontal disease, is a serious gum infection caused by excessive bacteria buildup on your teeth and gums. If left untreated, it can damage your teeth or, worse, your jawbones. Fortunately, periodontitis is treatable in its early stages with proper oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Periodontitis is more common than you think, affecting approximately 42% of adults over 30 in the United States. Be on the lookout for these warning signs:

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Bad breath
• Constant bad taste in your mouth
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Pain when chewing certain foods
• Loose or sensitive teeth
• Receding gums
• Bite issues

Periodontitis vs. Gingivitis: What’s the Difference?

Both are types of gum disease, but periodontitis is a more severe and advanced stage. Gingivitis is early inflammation of the gums, while periodontitis occurs when gingivitis goes unchecked and leads to infection.

The Stages of Periodontitis

Understanding the progression of periodontitis can help you take preventative measures:

• Inflammation (Gingivitis): Bleeding gums, inflamed gums, and tooth discoloration from plaque buildup.
• Early Periodontal Disease: Bleeding when brushing or flossing, gum recession, pocket formation in the gums, heavy plaque buildup, and bone erosion.
• Moderate Periodontal Disease: Increased bleeding and pain in teeth and recessed gums, loosening bones and teeth, and increased inflammation and sensitivity.
• Advanced Periodontal Disease: Severe pain when eating, very bad breath, foul taste in your mouth, teeth loosening or falling out, and erosion of gums, bones, and surrounding tissue.

Fighting Periodontitis

In addition to daily brushing and flossing, regular dental cleanings are crucial in preventing or controlling periodontal disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend seeing your dentist at least once a year.

What Causes Periodontitis?

Poor oral hygiene is the primary cause of periodontitis. Bacteria in your mouth grow and multiply, forming plaque. If left unchecked, the bacteria create mineral deposits, hardening into tartar, which encourages more bacterial growth and leads to gum inflammation and irritation.

Who’s at Risk?

Certain factors can increase your risk of periodontitis, including:

• Smoking
• Type 2 diabetes
• Stress
• Genetics
• Crooked teeth
• Compromised immune system
• Defective fillings
• Medications that cause dry mouth
• Female hormones (pregnancy and birth control)

Treatment Options

Periodontitis is treatable when caught early. In addition to good oral hygiene, treatment options include:

• Regular Dental Cleanings: Removing built-up plaque and tartar from your teeth and roots, cleaning and polishing your teeth, and deep-cleaning gum pockets to encourage healing.
• Medication: Antibiotics, antimicrobial mouthwash, antiseptic chips, antibiotic gels, pills, or microspheres, and enzyme suppressants.
• Surgery: Flap surgery, bone and tissue grafts, and soft tissue grafting may be necessary in advanced cases.

Preventing Periodontitis at Home

Good oral hygiene can go a long way in preventing, controlling, and reversing gum disease. Remember to:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Use floss or an interdental device daily.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria growth and inflammation.
• Replace your toothbrush regularly and store it upright.

Getting Diagnosed

If you’ve noticed bleeding when brushing or other oral problems, visit a dentist for a complete assessment. During your visit, the dentist will examine your gums, teeth, and surrounding bones to determine the extent of the issue.