Are you looking to know Gum Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment then read this article to find out Gum Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is a common problem that affects the soft tissues around your teeth. Your gums help hold your teeth in place and protect the jawbone underneath. Even though gum health is important, many people focus only on their teeth and ignore their gums.
Gum disease often develops slowly and without pain, so people may not notice it until it gets worse. If you are searching for dds near me, it’s important to understand the causes, signs, and treatment options.
What Is Gum Disease?
Healthy gums are pink, firm, and fit tightly around the teeth. Gum disease happens when bacteria and plaque infect the gums, causing them to swell, bleed, or pull away from the teeth.
The early stage is called gingivitis. It causes redness, swelling, and bleeding gums—especially when brushing or flossing. If not treated, it can turn into periodontitis, a more serious condition where the infection damages the bone and tissues that hold your teeth.
What Causes Gum Disease?
The main cause is plaque, a sticky film made of bacteria and food particles. If plaque is not cleaned off properly, it turns into tartar and irritates the gums. This causes inflammation and can create gaps between the gums and teeth where bacteria grow.
Other risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Poor dental care
- Diabetes
- Hormonal changes (like during pregnancy or menopause)
- Some medicines and medical conditions
- Family history (genetics)
Signs of Gum Disease
You may have gum disease if you notice:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Receding gums (gums pulling back from teeth)
- Pus between teeth
- Loose teeth or changes in your bite
Treatment for Gum Disease
Treatment depends on how serious the disease is. Your dentist will check your mouth and decide the best approach.
Non-surgical treatments:
- Scaling and root planing: This deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar below the gum line.
- Antibacterial rinses or antibiotics: These help reduce infection and swelling.
Surgical treatments (for advanced gum disease):
- Flap surgery: The dentist lifts the gums to clean deep areas and may reshape or graft tissues.
- Bone or gum grafts: Used to replace lost bone or gum tissue and support the teeth.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
You can lower your risk by:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Using antibacterial mouthwash
- Seeing your dentist regularly (every 6–12 months) for cleanings and checkups
- Avoiding tobacco
Conclusion
Gum disease can lead to serious problems like tooth loss, but it’s mostly preventable. Watch for early signs like bleeding gums and bad breath. With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, you can keep your gums healthy and your smile strong.