periodontal disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. The term periodontal means "around the tooth," and this disease can impact just one tooth or multiple teeth.

How It Starts It all begins with plaque— a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. When plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can irritate the gums, causing them to become inflamed. In the early stage, known as gingivitis, the gums may become red, swollen, and bleed easily. This stage often has little or no discomfort, and with good oral hygiene and professional treatment, gingivitis can usually be reversed.However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. In this stage, plaque spreads below the gum line, where bacteria produce toxins that irritate the gums. This sets off a chain reaction where the body’s immune response begins to break down the tissues and bone that support the teeth. As the disease advances, pockets form around the teeth, deepening over time and leading to further destruction of the gums and bone. Eventually, teeth may become loose and require removal.

The Risks Beyond tooth loss, untreated periodontal disease has been linked to other serious health issues, including:

• Stroke
• Heart disease
• Respiratory disease
• Increased risk of preterm, low-birth-weight babies

While poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of periodontal disease, several other factors can contribute to its development:

1. Smoking and Tobacco Use Tobacco use is a major risk factor for periodontal disease. Not only is it linked to cancer and heart disease, but it also significantly increases your risk of gum problems.

2. Genetics Up to 30% of the population may be genetically predisposed to gum disease. Even with excellent oral care, these individuals may be six times more likely to develop periodontal issues.

3. Medications Certain medications, including oral contraceptives, antidepressants, and heart medications, can impact your oral health, either by affecting hormone levels or causing dry mouth or tissue overgrowth.

4. Hormonal Changes (Puberty, Pregnancy, Menopause) Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can make your gums more sensitive and reactive, increasing the risk of gum disease. Pregnant women with gum disease are seven times more likely to deliver preterm, low-birth-weight babies.

5. Stress Chronic stress weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections— including periodontal disease.

6. Clenching or Grinding Teeth Teeth grinding or clenching, often occurring during sleep, places excess pressure on the supporting tissues of the teeth, accelerating the destruction of periodontal tissues.

7. Diabetes People with diabetes are at higher risk for infections, including periodontal disease, and may experience more severe forms of gum disease.

8. Poor Nutrition and Obesity A diet lacking in essential nutrients weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections like gum disease.

9. Other Health Conditions Any condition that affects your immune system, such as autoimmune diseases or certain medications, can worsen the condition of your gums.Taking care of your gums is crucial for your overall health. Regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene, and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent periodontal disease and its complications. If you’re concerned about your gum health, contact us today to schedule a consultation.