Did you know that four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t even realize it? Periodontal disease, often referred to as gum disease, is sneaky—it’s usually painless in the early stages, making it easy to overlook. Unlike tooth decay, which typically causes discomfort, periodontal disease can develop silently, without noticeable symptoms. That’s why regular dental checkups are essential for detecting problems early and keeping your gums—and overall health—on track.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease begins when plaque—a sticky, colorless film of bacteria, food particles, and saliva—builds up on your teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque produce toxins that irritate and inflame the gums, leading to gum disease. Over time, these toxins can damage the bone and tissues that support your teeth.
Most people aren’t aware of plaque buildup unless it leads to noticeable symptoms. That’s why brushing and flossing regularly and correctly is so crucial—by removing plaque before it can do any harm, you can maintain healthy gums and teeth.
Factors That Increase the Risk of Periodontal Disease
While poor oral hygiene is the leading cause of periodontal disease, several other factors can increase your risk. These include:
Smoking or Chewing Tobacco: Tobacco use promotes plaque buildup and tartar formation, making it more difficult to maintain healthy gums.
Dental Issues: Crowded teeth, poorly fitting bridges, or defective fillings can trap plaque and bacteria, increasing your risk of gum disease.
Medications: Certain medications—like steroids, cancer treatments, blood pressure medications, and oral contraceptives—can reduce saliva production, leaving your mouth dry and making it easier for plaque to stick.
Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, puberty, and oral contraceptives can cause hormonal changes that make your gums more sensitive to bacteria and toxins.
Systemic Health Conditions: Diseases like diabetes, blood disorders, and HIV/AIDS can weaken your immune system and make you more vulnerable to infections, including gum disease.
Genetics: If your family has a history of tooth loss or aggressive periodontal disease, you may be genetically predisposed to developing gum disease at a younger age.
How Gum Disease Affects Your Overall Health
Gum disease isn’t just a problem for your mouth—it’s also linked to a variety of other health issues. Here are just a few ways that poor gum health can impact your overall well-being:
Heart Disease: Studies have shown that people with gum disease are at higher risk of developing heart disease. The bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and contribute to inflammation in the arteries, potentially leading to heart disease.
Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, and people with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease due to their compromised immune system.
Respiratory Infections: Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of respiratory infections, including pneumonia. Bacteria from the mouth can travel to the lungs, causing infections.
Pregnancy Complications: Gum disease during pregnancy has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight. Proper gum care during pregnancy is important for both the mother and baby.
Recognizing the Signs of Periodontal Disease
It’s important to recognize the early signs of gum disease, as they can be subtle. Some common symptoms include:
Red, Puffy, or Bleeding Gums: Gums should never bleed, even if you brush aggressively or use dental floss. Red and swollen gums are a clear sign of inflammation.
Persistent Bad Breath: If you’re noticing chronic bad breath, it could be caused by the bacteria that thrive in an unhealthy mouth.
New Gaps Between Teeth: Bone loss caused by periodontal disease can cause teeth to shift and create noticeable gaps.
Loose Teeth: As the bone supporting your teeth is destroyed, your teeth may become loose or even fall out.
Pus Around Teeth and Gums: This is a sign of infection and should be addressed immediately.
Receding Gums: Gum recession is often a sign that your gums are pulling away from the teeth due to infection.
Discomfort or Tenderness: Plaque and bacteria can irritate the gums, causing them to feel sore or tender to the touch.
Preventing and Treating Periodontal Disease
Fortunately, gum disease is preventable and treatable. The key is good oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist for checkups and professional cleanings. Here's how you can reduce your risk:
Brush and Floss Daily: Make sure to brush at least twice a day and floss once a day to remove plaque and prevent buildup.
Eat a Balanced Diet: A healthy diet, rich in vitamins and nutrients, supports gum health.
Avoid Tobacco: Smoking or chewing tobacco can severely impact your gum health, so quitting is a great step toward healthier gums.
See Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential to detecting gum disease early and ensuring it’s treated before it becomes a serious problem.
At Anthony P. Parrella, DMD, we’re committed to helping you maintain a healthy smile and overall health. If you notice any of the signs of gum disease, or if it’s been a while since your last checkup, we encourage you to schedule an appointment today.
Don’t wait for symptoms to show up—take charge of your health and book your dental exam now!
Contact us at (973) 625-8585 or visit www.drparrella.com to schedule your visit today!