INTRODUCTION
Periodontal Diseases: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Periodontal or gum diseases generally occur due to infections and inflammation of the gums and bones that support and surround your teeth. The main reason for periodontal diseases is the presence of bacteria in your mouth for extended periods, which forms a film called plaque. Plaque then turns into a hardened material called tartar or calculus, causing serious oral complications. Dental plaque is an archetypical biofilm and comprises a well-organized colony of bacteria that adheres to tooth surfaces and is embedded in a slime layer. It is the major cause of several gum diseases.
FEATURES
How Can You Prevent or Treat Periodontal Diseases?
Periodontal or gum diseases generally occur due to infections and inflammation of the gums and bones that support and surround your teeth. The main reason for periodontal diseases is the presence of bacteria in your mouth for extended periods, which forms a film called plaque. Plaque then turns into a hardened material called tartar or calculus, causing serious oral complications. Dental plaque is an archetypical biofilm and comprises a well-organized colony of bacteria that adheres to tooth surfaces and is embedded in a slime layer. It is the major cause of several gum diseases.
Types of Periodontal Diseases
Gingivitis
1
Gingivitis is an early phase of gum disease. It is an inflammation or infection of the gums caused by the accumulation of dental plaque above the gum line. Virtually all people have gingivitis in at least one area of their mouth at any given time. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious and damaging stage of infection and gum inflammation.
Periodontitis
2
If gingivitis remains untreated for prolonged periods, it can convert to periodontitis, a severe gum infection that can lead to tooth loss and other severe health complications. Generally, it begins when the bacterial infection is caused by the plaque-inflamed gum tissue around your teeth and below the gum line where they are not visible. Over time, the gum tissue and bone supporting your teeth become destroyed, resulting in tooth loss.
Scaling and Root Planing Treatment
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Initial therapy in treating periodontitis involves non-surgical cleaning below the gum line with a procedure called scaling and root planing. This procedure involves an ultrasonic instrument and specialized curettes to mechanically remove plaque and calculus from below the gum line. Laser therapy also reduces the presence of periodontitis-causing bacteria, decreasing the level of inflammation.
PREVENTION
Preventing Gum Disease at Home
You should at least brush and floss your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush daily. Dental floss cleans the areas between your teeth and under the gum line, where a toothbrush can't reach. Rinsing with an antibacterial or fluoride-based mouthwash also helps in the prevention of gum diseases. If you smoke, consider quitting to minimize the chances of plaque buildup in your mouth. Regular check-ups at Balsam Dental in The Beaches let us catch signs of gum disease early. In its earliest stages, periodontal disease can often be reversed.
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SYMPTOMS
Common Symptoms of Gum Diseases
Gum disease often develops without pain in the early stages. There are various factors that lead to periodontal diseases, including genetics, a diet low in nutrients, smoking, autoimmune or systemic diseases, hormonal changes, bruxism (teeth grinding), certain medications, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Warning signs to watch for
• Swollen or puffy gums
• Bright red, dusky red, or purplish gums
• Gums that feel tender when touched
• Bleeding of gums while brushing or flossing
• Bad breath
• Presence of pus between your teeth and gums
• Painful chewing
• Sensitive teeth
If you have any of these symptoms, you might be in need of immediate dental treatment. At Balsam Dental in The Beaches, our experienced and well-trained team can effectively correct your oral irregularities.
BENEFITS
Treatment, prevention, and common questions.
How Long Can You Live with Periodontal Diseases?
Periodontal diseases in the initiation do not cause a life-threatening situation, but they can worsen if they remain untreated for prolonged periods. If periodontal diseases exceed the initial stages, they can cause serious aesthetic complications and bone or tooth loss. That's why it is necessary to cure gum or periodontal diseases in the beginning before they become severe and exert adverse effects on our oral health.
What Is Dental Plaque Composed Of?
Dental plaque is a sticky or slimy substance that is a combination of the leftover food particles and saliva in your mouth. If a person does not brush or floss his teeth properly, dental plaque starts building up on the tooth surface. It then converts into a hardened material called tartar or calculus, which is difficult to eliminate.
Is There a Difference Between Dental Plaque and Biofilm?
Plaque is a visible accumulation of a sticky film of bacteria on the tooth surface. If plaque is not removed in the initial stages, it then gives rise to biofilm. A biofilm is usually a layer of bacterial cells surrounded by extracellular polymeric substances, which are firmly attached to the tooth surface.
Can You Remove Plaque by Brushing Your Teeth?
If plaque is in its initial stages and has not transformed into calculus or tartar, it can be removed by brushing and flossing your teeth. However, you should also see a dental hygienist at regular intervals for in-depth oral cleanings, which can minimize the risks of several gum diseases.
Can gum disease be reversed?
The early stage (gingivitis) can absolutely be reversed with better home care and a professional cleaning. Once it progresses to periodontitis and bone loss occurs, the damage can't be undone — but progression can be stopped and further damage prevented. That's why catching it early matters so much.
Why do my gums bleed when I brush or floss?
Bleeding gums are the earliest warning sign of gum disease. Healthy gums don't bleed. If you're seeing pink on your brush or floss regularly, don't stop flossing — that often makes it worse. Instead, floss consistently for two weeks and see if the bleeding improves. If it doesn't, come in for an assessment.
Does gum disease really affect my overall health?
Yes, the link is well-documented. Untreated gum disease is associated with increased risks of heart disease, diabetes complications, stroke, and certain pregnancy complications. The mouth doesn't exist in isolation from the rest of your body. Treating gum disease is one of the highest-return things you can do for your general health.
How often should I get a deep cleaning?
Most patients do well with regular cleanings every 6 months. Patients with a history of gum disease often benefit from cleanings every 3–4 months to stay ahead of it. We'll recommend a schedule based on your specific gum health, and adjust it over time as things improve or need more attention.
