Most patients worry about the dentist finding tooth decay. While tooth decay is a serious dental health concern that can result in abscessed or loose teeth, the often-overlooked gum disease can be just as serious.
Most patients worry about the dentist finding tooth decay. While tooth decay is a serious dental health concern that can result in abscessed or loose teeth, the often-overlooked gum disease can be just as serious.
Gum disease is inflammation and decay of the gum tissue and jaw bone caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar (hardened plaque). Similar to tooth decay, gum disease is caused by inadequate dental hygiene. The same kind of germs and leftover food particles in the mouth settle in “pockets” where the surface of the tooth and the gum line meet. The plaque then accumulates in these areas, usually progressing under the gum line.
Gum disease starts off as gingivitis. This mildest form of gum disease can be quickly halted from progressing and can be easily reversed with improved oral hygiene.
If gingivitis isn’t treated, it progresses into periodontal disease. It is this moderate to severe form of gum disease where substantial damage to the gums and jaw bone supporting the teeth can occur. In the worst case of periodontal disease, teeth get loose and fall out. Patients with periodontal disease requires the intervention and treatment done by a dental professional.
The majority of Indian adults have some form of gum disease. How do you know if you have gum disease?
Common Symptoms of Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease:
Complications and consequences of periodontitis include:
One study of people with chronic coronary artery disease, lasting 3.7 years, found that for every five teeth lost, there was a 17% higher risk of cardiovascular death, a 16% higher risk of all-cause death, and a 14% higher risk of stroke.
It is unclear why this happens, but it may be that bacteria from periodontitis infect the coronary arteries, triggering a wider immune response.
Factors that increase the risk include:
A person should see a dentist if they have:
These symptoms may indicate a need for urgent treatment or further investigation to rule out other causes, such as mouth cancer or an abscess.
If you’re experiencing some of the symptoms of gum disease or you need to schedule a routine dental examination and cleaning, contact us at Precise Dental Care.