Gum disease is a serious problem that can lead to tooth loss. It begins with a sticky coating called plaque, which contains bacteria. The immune system fights the bacteria but over time, the gum tissue and bone become damaged. The mildest form of gum disease is gingivitis. This is easily treated with regular cleanings by the dentist and good oral hygiene.

Risk factors

Gum disease is more than just bad breath – it damages the tissue and bone that support your teeth. It is linked to many other health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. These health problems can also be treated with treatment for gum disease.

Risk factors for gum disease include smoking, poor oral hygiene, genetics, and stress. Smoking interferes with blood circulation and inhibits healing, especially when used together with a diet high in sugar and starch. Stress weakens immunity, making it harder to fight off infections. Teeth grinding, or bruxism, erodes enamel and wears away at the delicate tissue of the gums.

Studies have shown that people who smoke are more likely to develop periodontitis than nonsmokers. In addition, studies indicate that socioeconomic status has a direct impact on the incidence and severity of gum disease. This includes education, income level, job status, and access to dental care.

Symptoms

Gum disease begins with a film of bacteria called plaque, which builds up on teeth every day. When it mixes with food and saliva, plaque hardens into tartar, or calculus, and can cause gum inflammation and infection. As inflammation and infection progress, the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place begin to break down.

This process is characterized by bleeding when brushing, red and swollen gums, and tenderness in the mouth. It is also associated with bad breath (halitosis).

Gum disease can affect overall health and has been linked to heart disease, respiratory illness, stroke, diabetes, cancer and mental health problems such as depression. People with advanced gum disease are more likely to lose teeth. This can cause social isolation, which is linked to poorer physical and mental health. It may also increase the risk of COVID-19 infections and irritable bowel syndrome. Infection and inflammation in the oral cavity have been linked to a host of other medical conditions, including stroke, coronary heart disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and rheumatoid arthritis and gastrointestinal problems such as peptic ulcers.

Treatment

A gum disease infection that’s caught early and treated quickly can reverse damage to the teeth, tissues and bone. It can also reduce the risk of serious health problems like diabetes and heart disease.

The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, where the bacteria in plaque spreads below the gum line and causes inflammation. Gingivitis usually doesn’t cause pain or discomfort, but it can lead to loose and painful teeth if left untreated.

Your dentist or hygienist can clean your teeth and remove tartar during a scaling and root planing treatment. Local anesthesia numbs the area so your hygienist can gently sweep bacteria deep beneath the gum line and smooth the tooth roots to limit areas where harmful bacteria can hide. Prescription antimicrobial mouthwash or gel may be used to control infections and reduce bacteria.

Prevention

Many cases of gum disease can be prevented with regular oral hygiene, daily brushing and flossing and visits to the dentist for professional cleanings and exams. Gingivitis is easily reversed in its earliest stages.

Poor diet – Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and starch, releasing acids that attack teeth and gums. Avoid junk food and drink, and eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and lean proteins.

Genetics – Some people are predisposed to gum disease, based on their genes and how they respond to bacteria and other stressors in the body. Other factors include smoking, medications that reduce immune system function, and hormonal changes such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause.

Diseases that affect the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis, can also increase a person’s risk of developing gum disease. A person’s age and gender may also play a role in how susceptible they are to the infection.