Dealing with gum disease? You’re not alone. Gum disease is a common condition that affects nearly half of all adults in the United States. While it may be tempting to wait to address it, if left unchecked, gum disease can cause a wide range of issues inside your mouth, including tooth decay. 

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a bacterial infection inside the mouth that causes swollen, irritated and bleeding gums. Without proper care, gum disease can eventually lead to bone damage and tooth loss. The bacteria and inflammation in your gums can also spread to other parts of your body and put you at a higher risk for respiratory illnesses, heart problems and diabetes.

There are two main types: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the mildest form and is completely reversible. Periodontitis is a long-term condition that can eventually lead to tooth loss.

While it can affect anyone of any age, it is more common in individuals over the age of 30. It’s also known to run in families, so if your parents have a history of gum disease, you’re at a higher risk of developing it.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

In the early stages of gum disease, you may not even notice you have it. However, there are several signs to look for to help prevent the advancement of the disease.

• Inflamed gums. Bacteria in your mouth can cause your gums to swell and become inflamed. This irritation can make your mouth sensitive and may even make it difficult to chew.
• Bleeding gums. Healthy gums will not bleed if you brush and floss regularly. If you’ve just started flossing, your gums may bleed a little the first few times, but if it doesn’t go away after the first few weeks, you should see your dentist.
• Bad breath. The most common cause of bad breath is poor dental hygiene. Usually, the odor will be worse first thing in the morning or after eating certain foods. If you constantly have bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth, it could be due to the bacteria from gum disease.
• Receding gumline. In more advanced stages of gum disease, the gums will start receding from your teeth and can even expose the roots. This will eventually lead to tooth decay and sensitivity to heat and cold.
• Loose teeth. Gum disease can weaken the bones and tissues that keep your teeth in place. In the later stages of the disease, you may experience loose teeth.

Good Habits to Keep Your Gums Healthy

The good news is that there are treatment options for gum disease, and there are steps you can take to prevent it occurring, such as:

• Practice good oral hygiene
• Quit smoking
• Eat a healthy and balanced diet
• Understand your risks
• Schedule an annual dentist appointment

Contact Yardley Dental Arts Today!

If you notice any signs of gum disease, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible for periodontal treatment.

At Yardley Dental Arts, we specialize in keeping your gums healthy – contact us today to learn more about our gum disease treatment options!