Although dental caries is the most common dental disease, the second one is periodontal disease (which is commonly referred to as gum disease). At first periodontal disease starts as gingivitis and progresses to periodontitis, if left untreated. Initially, gingivitis can be noticed by the redness, and swelling in the gums. Patients with gingivitis will experience bleeding on brushing. As the disease progresses symptoms like bad breath, sensitivity to hot and cold foods, receding gums (gums that pull away from your teeth, making your teeth look longer than usual), pus in the gum line, new spaces that develop between your teeth, pain on chewing, changes in the way the teeth fit together when you bite may also occur in periodontitis.
The buildup of plaque is the most common reason for periodontal disease. People with poor oral hygiene are most likely to get periodontal disease since the plaque contains bacteria that affect the gums.
In some people, genes play a role in periodontal disease by changing the way their immune system responds to bacteria. Risk factors of periodontitis include smoking, diabetes, malaligned teeth, improper fit of dental appliances, certain medicines, genetics, pregnancy, etc.
Gum disease can be treated by good oral care, regular dental visits, professional cleaning and other gum therapy, in case of advanced stages.
Gum disease can be prevented by following these instructions
- Brushing thoroughly twice daily- once when you wake up and once before you go to bed.
- Floss every day to remove the food deposits between the teeth.
- Don’t smoke or use other tobacco products.
- Limit food and drinks containing alcohol and excess sugar.
- Visit a Dentist at least once a year for regular check-ups and more often if you have any symptoms.
- Manage diabetes if you have it.
The tissue breakdown happens gradually and hence most people do not experience pain in the early stages of gum disease. Hence it is essential to know the warning signs.
Gum disease can be reversed when it is treated early. In the advanced stages, you will lose the bone around the teeth and at this stage, it cannot be reversed.
If left untreated, periodontal disease is like a silent killer that destroys the underlying bone and weakens the tooth-supporting structures eventually leading to tooth loss. However, you can manage it with proper treatment and consistent, diligent oral hygiene.
Gum disease and general health:
Gum disease not only affects the oral health but also has an impact on the general health. Gum disease and systemic diseases have a bi-directional relationship, which means an increase in gum tissue destruction leads to the worsening of the systemic disease and vice-versa.
Periodontal diseases have an impact on numerous diseases including diabetes, cardiac disease, pneumonia, pregnancy, pre-term birth, stress, etc. For example, in the case of diabetic patients, the blood sugar levels can be controlled by treating the periodontal disease, while the periodontal disease can be treated by controlling the blood sugar levels.
Dr Shreemogana, MDS
Consultant Periodontist
Kauvery Hospital Chennai
