Recognizing Early Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease is a condition that affects 40% of US adults over the age of 30. However, many people with this condition do not even realize they have it because it often starts in subtle and hard-to-detect ways. 

Worse still, gum disease can affect your overall health. Inflammatory markers can find their way from the mouth into your bloodstream, raising the risk of various blood cancers, diabetes, and even heart disease.

Learning about the importance of early detection and how to tell if you have gum disease can save you a lot of trouble. Here are some tips for maintaining your gum health and advice on when to seek professional intervention.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease refers to two distinct medical conditions: gingivitis and periodontitis.

Most patients think of gingivitis when they think of gum disease. Sometimes called “periodontal disease,” it refers to redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gingiva, the part of the gum that encircles teeth.

Periodontal disease is more serious. It occurs when bacteria penetrate below the gum line and toward the root of the teeth. Symptoms include abscesses, severe gum swelling, fever, and bleeding. So-called “pockets” (permanent gaps) can also develop between the affected gum and nearby tooth, increasing the risk of extractions. 

What Causes Gum Disease?

The primary cause of gum disease is plaque, which results from the bacterial breakdown of sugars and starches in the mouth. Acidic compounds attack the gingiva, causing periodontal disease. When left untreated, plaque can penetrate further into the gums, leading to periodontitis (the more serious of the two conditions). 

Other factors also contribute to the likelihood of developing gum disease. These include: 

  • Age: Being over 30

  • Certain health conditions: Having diabetes or other immune disorders

  • Diet: Eating sugary and starchy foods with a high “stickiness” rating

  • Genetics: Being more prone to bacterial invasion

  • Poor oral hygiene: Brushing inadequately at night

  • Smoking/tobacco use: Participating in activities that harm the gumline and assist in bacterial invasion

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of gum disease is essential because of its potential effects on overall health. Bacteria from the mouth can travel through the body and increase the risk of several diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. 

Furthermore, the condition can also lead to unwanted complications if left untreated. Patients with out-of-control gum disease are significantly more likely to develop more serious periodontitis, which often leads to tooth extraction. Other complications include local and systemic infection, painful abscesses, and swelling under the teeth. 

Therefore, many dentists view early detection as an opportunity to preserve natural teeth and gum tissue. If bacteria goes untreated, it can chip away at roots and underlying bone, making restorative work more challenging. 

Early Signs of Gum Disease

Some of the most common symptoms of gum disease include:

  • Red, swollen gums: Red and swollen gums are the most obvious signs of bacterial plaque attacks on the gingiva and periodontal area. These reactions indicate the body’s immune system is trying to fight off an infection and prevent it from taking hold below the gum line. 

  • Bleeding gums: Blood after brushing or eating implies bacterial plaque is destroying the delicate layer of cells that protect the roots of your teeth. Bacteria damage this surface-level tissue, exposing tiny blood vessels (capillaries) that bleed during brushing or chewing. 

  • Bad breath (halitosis): Bad breath suggests the presence of bacteria in the mouth due to infection.

  • Receding gums: Plaque can cause receding gums if neglected for an extended period. Gum tissue retreats during damaging episodes and can’t advance back to its previous position (often because plaque or tartar is in the way).

  • Tender or painful gums: Tender or painful gums suggest the immune system is trying to clear bacteria away from sensitive areas (such as the pockets immediately below the gum line). 

  • Loose teeth: Eventually, bacteria can eat away at your teeth and tissue around the roots, causing teeth to wobble around in their sockets and sometimes fall out.

Tips for Maintaining Your Gum Health

Fortunately, you can avoid these problems by adopting strategies that maintain your gum health. Here are some of our best tips:

Brush effectively: Always brush for two minutes in the morning and evening with fluoride-containing toothpaste. If possible, use an electric toothbrush. Research shows that they scoop away more plaque than traditional brushes. Don’t forget to brush the inside (tongue-facing) parts of your teeth. Many people accidentally neglect these areas.

Use dentist-approved toothpaste and toothbrushes: Only use dentist-approved toothpaste and toothbrushes. Our experts at Durango Dental can tell you which products work and will protect your gums from further damage. 

Floss regularly: Clean the spaces between your teeth at regular intervals. This action removes any plaque that might be lurking in gaps your regular toothbrush can’t reach. 

Eat a healthy diet and limit sugar intake: Avoid sugary food or beverages when possible. Eat a healthy diet of whole plant foods to minimize the risk of plaque buildup.

Schedule regular dental cleanings: Visit your dentist every few months for professional cleanings. These remove any lingering plaque that brushing and flossing alone didn’t remove. 

When to Seek Professional Help

If you have unique circumstances, such as braces or health conditions, and suspect you might have gum disease, book an appointment with your dentist immediately. Dealing with problems as soon as they arise is much safer than waiting until they are out of control.

Even if you aren’t a member of a vulnerable population, you should still seek immediate medical attention if you experience persistent symptoms. At Durango Dental, we can provide treatments for gum disease, including tooth cleanings, antibiotics, and more. 

Gum Disease Treatment in Durango

Adequate oral hygiene is essential for preventing gum disease. It protects against tooth loss and chronic disease elsewhere in the body. In light of this, we encourage you to stay vigilant and proactive regarding your gum health. Don’t leave it to chance. 

To schedule a cleaning, contact Durango Dental today. Our team can remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, giving you fresher breath and an improved smile.