Gum Disease

Most people tend to think that cavities affect children and gum disease affects adults. But children, teenagers, adults and even seniors can be prone to both cavities and gum infection. The thing to remember with dental gum disease is that it's preventable in the same way cavities are — by brushing and flossing daily and seeing a dentist regularly. If you're in between regular dental visits but keep seeing pink in the sink after you brush your teeth or your mouth tastes like a rusty muffler looks, it may be time for a gum disease exam. For more convincing, read these articles to learn what to look out for and what gum infection treatments are available. Because without proper care, gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis can get worse — eventually causing premature tooth loss.

Q: My gums sometimes bleed. Do I have gum disease?
A: If you have bleeding gums, disease has probably set in. Also, if soreness is a problem for your gums, disease may be why. But the only way to get a positive (or negative) prognosis for signs of gum infection is to visit your dentist for a complete evaluation. So while bleeding gums can be due to something like brushing your teeth too, it's always a good idea to see your dentist for a complete dental gum disease evaluation.

Q: What's the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
A: Gingivitis and periodontitis are two types of gum diseases, representing the early and advanced stages. In the early stages, dental gum disease manifests as sore gums, bleeding gums or red, swollen gums. This is called gingivitis, which can be reversed with regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene practices.

Without proper care, gingivitis can lead to advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis, or periodontal gum disease. Periodontitis can cause similar effects plus more serious problems like gum recession, loose teeth and even tooth loss. The cure for this advanced type of gum infection usually involves a combination of a scaling and root planing (SRP) treatment along with regular dental visits and excellent oral hygiene.

Q: I always brush and floss. Why do I have gum disease?
A: While gum diseases are often the result of NOT brushing, flossing and seeing the dentist regularly, they can also be caused by genetics, hormonal imbalances, diabetes, pregnancy, smoking, poorly fitting crowns or bridges and many other factors.