Do your gums bleed when brushing your teeth?
This could be an early warning sign of existing gum disease and should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid further damage or advanced disease.
Drs. Kush and Krutav Patel offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for all stages of gum disease in their Fullerton, CA dentist office.
Why Treat Gum Disease?
Often called a “silent disease”, gum disease can progress rapidly without detection and remains a leading cause of tooth loss today. In fact, many patients do not realize they have periodontal disease until they visit with us and we notice the common signs during a dental exam. Left untreated, gum disease will compromise the teeth and can result in a range of complex problems that may affect your dental and overall health and well being.
Dr. Kush Patel and Dr. Krutav Patel look for the common signs of gum disease during routine preventive dental care and offer appropriate treatment to restore a healthy smile. Common signs can include:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Loose teeth or shifting teeth
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Receding gums
- Changes in the bite or the fit of dentures
Gum disease has been scientifically linked in ongoing studies to the state of a patient’s overall health. Healthy gums provide a protective “barrier” between the many strains of harmful bacteria that enter the mouth and the bloodstream. When gum disease breaks down this barrier, bacteria that enters into the bloodstream can lead to inflammation and disease. Poor oral health is associated with an increase in both cardiovascular and systemic disease, raising the risk of incidence or the severity of disease when already present.
At Fullerton Craft Smiles, Drs. Patel place an emphasis on disease prevention and work with patients to maintain healthy gums as well as healthy teeth. For those suffering with chronic periodontal or overall health issues, we offer personalized advice and care to address your unique concerns and reduce the risks associated with persistent gum disease.
Gum Disease Stages
Gum disease develops in stages, starting from mild irritation and progressing to more severe conditions. Understanding the stages of gum disease is important for preventing and treating it early.
Stage 1: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and is often the most treatable. The gums become red and swollen at this point and may bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. Gingivitis occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along the gumline. If you don’t remove this plaque with regular brushing and flossing, it can irritate the gums and cause inflammation. Gingivitis doesn’t usually cause pain, but it can lead to more severe gum disease if left untreated.
Signs of Gingivitis:
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath (halitosis)
Gingivitis can often be reversed with proper oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly. If you catch it early, your gums can heal, and the condition won’t progress.
Stage 2: Early Periodontitis
If gingivitis is not addressed, it can develop into early periodontitis. At this stage, the infection spreads deeper into the gums and affects the bone supporting your teeth. The gums may begin to pull away from the teeth, creating small pockets where bacteria can thrive. This leads to further inflammation and discomfort.
Signs of Early Periodontitis:
- Gums that begin to pull away from the teeth
- Slight redness and puffiness
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Foul breath
Although the damage is still reversible at this stage, treatment is necessary to prevent further progression. A professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist can remove the plaque and tartar buildup, helping to control the infection and prevent further harm.
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis
Moderate periodontitis occurs when the infection spreads, and the damage to the gums and bone becomes more significant. At this stage, pockets between the gums and teeth deepen, and the bone supporting the teeth begins to break down. The gums may recede further, and tooth movement may occur due to the weakening of the supporting structures. Pain, swelling, and bleeding become more noticeable.
Signs of Moderate Periodontitis:
- Deeper gum pockets (more than 3 mm)
- Noticeable gum recession
- Increased tooth sensitivity or pain
- Difficulty chewing or discomfort when biting
- Persistent bad breath
More advanced treatment may be needed at this stage, such as scaling and root planing. This procedure involves cleaning and smoothing the tooth roots to help the gums reattach to the teeth. If left untreated, moderate periodontitis can progress to severe periodontitis, leading to more permanent damage.
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage of gum disease, and it can cause significant damage to both the gums and the bone structure. The infection is widespread at this stage, and the gum tissue and bone are severely damaged. The teeth may become loose or even fall out because they lack enough bone support. This stage of gum disease can also lead to systemic health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes, due to the spread of bacteria from the mouth to other parts of the body.
Signs of Advanced Periodontitis:
- Severe gum recession
- Loose teeth or teeth shifting
- Abscesses or pus around the gums
- Constant bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Severe pain or discomfort in the gums and teeth
Treatment for advanced periodontitis often involves more intensive procedures, such as surgical options to restore lost bone or tissue. Sometimes, tooth extraction may be necessary if the teeth can’t be saved. Ongoing care from a dentist and regular maintenance cleanings are essential to manage and prevent further damage.
Preventing Gum Disease
Preventing gum disease is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. The good news is that gum disease is preventable with proper oral hygiene and healthy habits.
Brush Your Teeth Regularly
Brushing your teeth at least twice daily is the most important step in preventing gum disease. Brushing removes plaque from the surface of your teeth and along the gumline, where plaque can quickly turn into harmful tartar. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean your teeth and gums. Make sure to brush for at least two minutes, reaching all areas, including each tooth’s front, back, and chewing surfaces. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, as bacteria can also build up there.
Floss Daily
While brushing is important, it doesn’t reach every part of your mouth. Flossing is necessary to clean between your teeth, where plaque can build up and cause gum disease. Flossing once a day helps remove food particles and plaque your toothbrush can’t reach. Be gentle when flossing to avoid injuring your gums. Slide the floss up and down between each tooth and curve it around the base to remove plaque and debris.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Regular dental check-ups are essential for preventing gum disease. Your dentist or hygienist will clean your teeth professionally, removing any tartar that has built up. They will also check your gums for signs of gum disease, such as redness, swelling, or bleeding. A routine dental exam is your opportunity to catch any problems early before they become serious. Dentists recommend seeing a professional at least twice a year, but if you are at higher risk for gum disease, you may need more frequent visits.
Use Mouthwash
An antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and bacteria in your mouth, which are the main causes of gum disease. Mouthwash can also help freshen your breath and reduce inflammation. Look for a mouthwash that is alcohol-free and designed for gum health. Swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds to one minute after brushing and flossing to kill bacteria and prevent plaque buildup.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is one of the leading risk factors for gum disease. It weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections, including those in the gums. Smoking also reduces blood flow to the gums, which can lead to slower healing and an increased risk of gum disease. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your oral health and overall well-being.
Eat a Healthy Diet
A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for healthy gums. Vitamin C, in particular, plays a key role in gum health by helping your body produce collagen necessary for gum tissue repair. Foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can provide the nutrients your gums need. Avoid excessive sugary snacks and drinks, as they can feed harmful bacteria in your mouth and increase your risk of gum disease.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and bacteria from your mouth. Staying hydrated also helps maintain saliva production, which is important for neutralizing acids and protecting your gums. Water is the best choice for hydration, but if you drink sugary beverages, brush your teeth afterward.
Schedule An Appointment
Are you concerned about the health of your gums? Call our dentist office in Fullerton at (714) 888-7008 or use our online request form and we will contact you shortly. Don’t let gum disease ruin your natural smile- we can assess your dental concerns and offer treatment tailored to your specific needs for a healthy, lasting smile.