More than 4 out of 10 adults over 30 face gum disease.[1] While it’s more common in men, women must also be cautious. If left untreated, this condition can lead to health problems that affect more than your mouth. Going to a periodontist in Rochester, NY, can help stop these issues before they start.
You may have periodontal disease if you have been experiencing bleeding gums, unusual bad breath, or mouth pain. If you don’t get prompt dental treatment, you could increase your risk of other health problems, even systemic ones such as heart disease and stroke.
Understanding the Symptoms of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease is an infection that causes the soft tissue around teeth to become inflamed. This inflammation, in turn, starts to break down the tissue and bone that hold teeth in place. It can be painful, but not everyone has painful symptoms. You might not notice any signs at all until the disease worsens. This is why routine check-ups with your periodontist are so important. They are able to catch these issues before they progress and worsen.
The most common symptoms of gum disease include:
- Swollen, red, tender gums
- Receding gums
- Bleeding when you brush and floss
- Mouth sores
- Constant bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- Changes in your bite alignment
If these symptoms sound familiar, you may have gum disease. To find out, schedule an appointment with a periodontist in Rochester, NY.
Risk Factors Leading to Gum Disease
Many factors contribute to developing gum disease and include the following:
Age
Periodontal disease is more common in older adults for many reasons. One significant factor is a lack of dental care. For instance, improper brushing and flossing habits can cause plaque and tartar buildup. These substances contain harmful bacteria that multiply, leading to gum disease.
Older adults are also more likely to have systemic health conditions. Heart disease, uncontrolled diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis are related to gum health. Diabetes, in particular, affects how the body fights off infections, and the inflammation related to rheumatoid arthritis can heighten gum disease.
Smoking and Tobacco Use
Gum disease is more likely to develop if you smoke or use tobacco. Tobacco weakens the immune system, making it harder for the gums to heal. It also directly damages periodontal ligament cells and contributes to increased bone loss.
Clenching and Grinding Your Teeth
Clenching and grinding your teeth is also known as bruxism. This action stresses the supporting tissues surrounding your teeth, speeding up periodontal tissue destruction.
Poor Nutrition
Eating an unbalanced diet means your body doesn’t get the nutrients it needs. Poor nutrition weakens your immune system and makes it harder to battle infection, which raises the chance of getting periodontal disease.
Complications Related to Untreated Gum Disease
Without proper treatment, periodontal disease can cause several complications that significantly impact your oral and overall health. Many of these issues are uncomfortable, and some of them can put your life at risk.
Abscess
One common complication is a painful infection called an abscess. This infection forms within the gums and makes them red and swollen. Your mouth may even form pus-filled pockets. Without treatment, abscesses will return and may become more painful.
Receding Gums
Periodontal disease causes the gums to pull away from the teeth. The roots become exposed, leading to tooth sensitivity and an increased risk of tooth decay.
Periodontal Damage
The periodontal ligament attaches the tooth to the bone. The tooth socket sits within the alveolar bone. Untreated gum disease causes the ligament and bone to deteriorate. Eventually, you’ll have tooth mobility and tooth loss. The only solution may be to replace missing teeth with bone grafting and dental implants.
Overall Health Impacts
Gum disease can lead to multiple issues for your oral health and can even harm your overall health. For instance, the bacteria in your mouth could enter your bloodstream and cause other health issues. Gum disease can increase blood sugar levels in people with diabetes and is also connected to a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, cancer, premature birth, low birth rate, among others.
Protect Your Health With a Dental Cleaning From a Periodontist in Rochester, NY
Periodontal disease is treatable when detected early. Regular dental care can help manage symptoms and keep gum disease under control.
Don’t let this oral health condition progress! To prevent gum disease from worsening, schedule an appointment by calling Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester at 585-685-2005. We focus on periodontal care and help brighten your smile.
Sources:
[1] https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/gum-disease-by-the-numbers
