Did you know that gum disease affects over 40% of American adults? Many don’t even realize they have it. This common condition, also known as periodontal disease, often starts quietly with mild gingivitis and can progress to more serious stages if left unchecked. But here’s the good news: gum disease is both preventable and manageable.

In this article, we’ll explore what gum disease is and how it’s treated, and share some simple steps you can take to keep your gums healthy.

What Is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along your gumline. This buildup leads to inflammation, causing your gums to become red, swollen, or prone to bleeding when you brush or floss.

Unlike more advanced stages of gum disease, gingivitis doesn’t cause permanent damage to your teeth or bone structure. However, it’s important not to ignore these early warning signs. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which leads to tooth loss and other serious health issues. Fortunately, regular dental check-ups help catch gingivitis early, and consistent daily hygiene practices can slow down or prevent its progression to more severe issues.

Gingivitis and Gum Disease: The Stages of Periodontal Disease

As noted, gum disease doesn’t develop overnight. It’s a gradual condition that worsens if left undiagnosed and untreated. While we’ve covered gingivitis, let’s look at how periodontal disease can progress:

1. Gingivitis – The initial stage of gum disease, characterized by inflammation and bleeding gums.
2. Early Periodontitis – Gum pockets begin to form as gums pull away from teeth. You might notice slight gum recession, making teeth appear longer. X-rays may show minor bone loss, usually less than 15% of the root length.
3. Moderate Periodontitis – Gum pockets deepen, allowing more bacteria to collect. Teeth may become loose as supporting structures weaken. Bone loss typically ranges from 15-33%. You might experience increased sensitivity and discomfort while chewing.
4. Advanced Periodontitis – Gum pockets exceed 6mm deep. Significant bone loss occurs, and teeth become very loose. Chewing can be painful, and you may notice persistent bad breath. Without aggressive treatment, tooth loss is likely.

It’s important to remember that symptoms can be mild or even unnoticeable in the earlier stages. Don’t wait for discomfort – by then, the disease may have already progressed significantly.

Treatment Options for Gum Disease

Professional cleaning and improved at-home care can often reverse gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. For early to moderate periodontitis, procedures like scaling and root planing may be recommended to deep clean below the gumline. More advanced cases may require surgical treatments or referrals to a periodontist. Ongoing maintenance care is crucial to prevent further damage.

Tips for Preventing Gum Disease

The best treatment for gum disease is prevention. Follow these tips to keep your gums healthy for the long term.

• Brush Twice Daily: Brushing your teeth morning and night helps remove plaque and prevent inflammation of the gums.
• Floss Every Day: Flossing reaches areas your toothbrush can’t, dislodging food particles and plaque between teeth.
• Schedule Regular Dental Visits: See your dentist every 6 months (or as recommended) for professional cleanings and checkups.
• Quit Tobacco: Smoking and chewing tobacco greatly increase your risk of developing gum disease.
• Manage Dry Mouth: Conditions that reduce saliva flow allow bacteria to thrive. Stay hydrated and use saliva substitutes if needed.
• Act on Early Symptoms: Don’t ignore even mild signs like bleeding or swollen gums. Have them checked out right away.

By making these preventive habits part of your daily routine, you can stop gum disease before it starts and avoid more serious oral health issues down the line.

Trust Your Smile to Imperial Dental Center

Gum disease may be common, but with the right preventive care and treatment, you can stop it in its tracks and maintain a healthy, confident smile.

At Imperial Dental Center, our team of experts offers comprehensive dental services to prevent and treat gum disease. Whether you’re dealing with early warning signs or more advanced issues, we have the skills and technology to get your oral health back on track.

If you’ve noticed any concerning symptoms or simply haven’t been to the dentist in a while, we encourage you to schedule a checkup at Imperial Dental Center today. Let us help you achieve the vibrant, trouble-free smile you deserve.

If you’re ready for that kind of care, give us a call to schedule your first visit.
We’d be happy to welcome you.

Dr. Dragana Angelova
Imperial Dental Center
“We love to see you smile”