Gingivitis and periodontitis, or gum disease needs to be taken seriously. Poor oral health care, poor as well as some medications and illnesses can cause bleeding gums, sensitivity to some foods and drinks, loose teeth and receding gums, as well as ulcers and open sores, which only get worse over time. Gum disease can be prevented and managed with better oral care and treatment from a dental hygienist and a dentist. Don’t ignore the symptoms. Especially the first one – bad breath.
If someone tells you your breath is bad, pay attention! The same applies if you realise you have persistent bad breath. It’s important because persistent bad breath is the first sign of gum disease.
Persistent bad breath may not sound worrisome, but gum disease is a serious condition that needs to be treated immediately and managed on an ongoing basis. Significant dental and health issues will occur if it is ignored.
There are four stages of gum disease
Stage 1: Gingivitis – Persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and pockets between the teeth and the gum begin to form.
If not treated immediately…
Stage 2: Periodontal disease – Painful, red, swollen, bleeding gums when you brush and floss, as well as sensitivity to hot or cold food or drink. If not treated immediately…
Stage 3: Severe Periodontal disease – Bone loss in your jaw, tooth loss, and gum abscesses. If immediate action is not taken you could develop…
Stage 4: Necrotising periodontal disease (NPD) – Destruction of the gums between your teeth, and large open ulcers leaving permanent holes in your gums. The worst-case scenario gangrene in your mouth’s soft tissues.
So, it is vital that you don’t ignore any of these symptoms.
How do you get gum disease?
- Not drinking between 1 – 2 litres of water every day. It hydrates your mouth and encourages saliva. Together they wash away food particles and bacteria. A dry mouth encourages bacteria.
- A poor diet. Too many sugary foods and drinks, especially alcohol, as well as too much junk food is very bad for your overall health but especially your teeth.
- Poor oral health care. You must brush and floss at least twice a day and visit your dental hygienist and dentist at least twice a year.
- Crooked teeth that are hard to clean. Floss is your best friend here.
- Smoking, chewing tobacco, or vaping.
- Hormonal changes including pregnancy and menopause.
- Illnesses such as diabetes.
- Certain medications for epilepsy, some cancer treatments, blood pressure medication, and oral contraceptives.
- A family history of gum disease
How can I prevent gum disease?
- Drink lots of water.
- Practising excellent oral health care.
- Visit your dental hygienist and dentist twice a year, minimum.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash.
- Don’t smoke, chew tobacco, or vape.
- Improve your diet. Cut out all sugar and fast food.
What treatment options are available for gum disease?
- Gargle with salt water.
- Learn how to brush and floss correctly.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash.
- Scaling and root planning – a deeper clean beneath your gums than regular dental cleaning.
- Dental repair work to fix dental work that has deteriorated.
- Removal of any loose, or decaying teeth, as well as any necrotic tissue in your mouth.
- Antibiotics depending on the severity of the gum disease.
There is ongoing research into what effect on your overall health, gun disease may have. Keep your teeth spotless. You will be less likely to develop other diseases.
Do you have persistent bad breath? Are you concerned that you may have gum disease?
If you’ve said yes to any of those questions, or if you have any of these symptoms, make an appointment today and we will help you prevent and manage your gum disease. Contact us on: 0508 TEAM DENTAL.
FAQs:
Q1: What is the very first sign of gum disease?
The first and most commonly ignored sign of gum disease is persistent bad breath. While it might seem minor, constant bad breath is a warning that bacteria are building up in your mouth. If ignored, this early stage (gingivitis) can quickly progress to bleeding gums, receding gums, loose teeth, and even jaw bone loss.
Q2: Can gum disease be reversed or managed?
Yes. If caught early during Stage 1 (Gingivitis), gum disease can be completely prevented and managed with excellent home care and professional treatments. This includes drinking plenty of water to wash away bacteria, brushing and flossing twice a day, and visiting your dentist or dental hygienist at least twice a year for deep cleanings like scaling and root planing.