Gum disease is one of the most common oral health conditions worldwide, but it often goes unnoticed until it has advanced. While cavities usually get more attention, gum disease—also known as periodontal disease—is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Beyond your smile, it can also affect your overall health. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand gum disease, its causes, warning signs, and the importance of prevention.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the gums and surrounding structures that support the teeth. It develops in stages:
- Gingivitis – The earliest stage, marked by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. At this point, the damage is reversible with proper care.
- Periodontitis – A more serious stage where gums pull away from teeth, forming pockets that trap bacteria. This can lead to bone loss and, eventually, tooth loss.
What Causes Gum Disease?
The root cause of gum disease is plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day. If plaque isn’t removed through daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. Once tartar forms, it can only be removed by a dental professional. Over time, the irritation caused by plaque and tartar leads to infection in the gums.
Other risk factors include:
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Diabetes
- Hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause
- Certain medications
- Genetics and family history
- High stress levels
Common Signs and Symptoms
Gum disease doesn’t always cause pain, which is why many people don’t realize they have it. Watch for these early warning signs:
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule a dental exam with South Sound Dental Care.
How Gum Disease Affects Overall Health
Research shows that gum disease doesn’t just impact your mouth. Studies suggest connections between periodontal disease and:
- Heart disease – Inflammation from gum disease may contribute to cardiovascular issues.
- Diabetes – Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar, while diabetes increases the risk of gum infections.
- Pregnancy complications – Gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
Although the exact connections are still being studied, one fact is clear: healthy gums support a healthier body.
Treatment Options at South Sound Dental Care
The good news is that gum disease is treatable, especially if caught early. At South Sound Dental Care, we offer:
- Professional dental cleanings – Routine cleanings help remove plaque and tartar before they cause gum disease.
- Scaling and root planing – Also called a deep cleaning, this treatment smooths tooth roots and removes bacteria below the gumline to help gums reattach.
- Surgical treatments – For advanced cases, procedures like pocket reduction or gum grafts may be recommended.
- Dental implants – If gum disease leads to tooth loss, we provide permanent replacement solutions to restore your smile.
Preventing Gum Disease
Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to gum health. Simple daily habits and regular visits to South Sound Dental Care go a long way:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss once a day to clean between teeth
- Use an antibacterial or fluoride mouth rinse if recommended
- Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary foods and drinks
- Visit us for routine exams and professional cleanings, typically every 6 months—or more often if you’re at higher risk
The Bottom Line
Gum disease is common, but it doesn’t have to control your health. With early detection, professional cleanings, and advanced treatments like scaling and root planing at South Sound Dental Care, you can protect both your smile and your overall well-being.
If you’re noticing signs of gum disease, don’t wait—schedule your gum health evaluation with South Sound Dental Care today. Early treatment is easier, less invasive, and more effective.