What to expect from gingivitis and periodontal disease
“The result of over time bacterial growth in the mouth.”
Periodontitis, also known as periodontal disease or gum disease, is the result of over time bacterial growth in the mouth. Without proper treatment tooth loss is expected as a consequence of the destruction of the tissue that surround the tooth.
But what is the difference?
Gingivitis, (which is a the inflammation of the gum tissue), usually precedes periodontitis. What you need to know is that gingivitis doesn’t necessarily progress to periodontal disease. The early stage of gingivitis are full of plaque build up. In time, this will inflame the gums and will bleed easily during brushing. Even though the gums are irritated, the teeth are firmly planted in their sockets. There is no harm to the bone or to any other tissue at this point.
If left untreated, the gingivitis will lead to periodontitis. A person with periodontitis can expect the inner layer of the gum and bone to pull away from the teeth. The result are small spaces between the teeth and gums, called pockets, where foods and debris will collect and will become infected. The body’s immune system will fight the infection, but the bacteria will create new pockets below the gum line. The body’s good enzymes and the toxins and poisons produced by the bacteria will start to break down the bone and all the tissue that hold the teeth in place. In time, the disease will progress, the pockets will deepen, and the bone and gum tissue will be destroyed more. At a certain point, teeth will no longer have an anchor in place and will become loose. That is when the tooth loss occurs. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss.
What causes periodontal disease?
The primary cause for gum disease is a plaque. There are also more causes that contribute to the evolution of this condition. These include:
Illnesses that affects the gums. This includes cancer and HIV, which are conditions that interfere with the immune system. Diabetes is also a problem because it affects the body’s ability to use blood sugar. Patients suffering from diabetes are at risk of developing infections such as gum disease and cavities.
Hormonal changes, such as those during menopause, pregnancy and puberty can also make your gums more sensitive and will let gingivitis develop much easier.
Medication can affect oral health because it lowers the saliva flow levels that are protective for teeth and gums.
Bad habits like smoking and drinking can also make it harder for the gums to repair itself.
Poor dental hygiene such as not brushing and flossing daily can make it easier for gingivitis to develop.
The family history of dental disease can be one of the contributing factors for gingivitis and gum disease.
If your gums are bleeding, schedule a dentist appointment. There you can determine the cause of your problem and if it is gingivitis you can prevent periodontal disease. Remember to brush your teeth on a daily basis and floss regularly.