What Happens If Gum Disease Is Left Untreated?

Dentists everywhere stress the importance of proper oral hygiene every day. While it may not seem that important to the average person, especially with modern dental conveniences, dental hygiene is still extremely important for helping to prevent various diseases and conditions.

Today, we’re looking at gum disease, how it starts, and what can happen if you don’t get it treated. Read on for more information.

What is Gum Disease?

Your gums are the tissues that hold your teeth in place. Gum diseases are infections that affect this tissue. Your dentist may call it either periodontal disease or periodontitis. Gum disease is fairly common – almost half of adults ages 30 and older exhibit signs of gingivitis and periodontitis. Fortunately, it is easily treatable as long as you don’t let it get too serious.

Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease is usually a result of improper oral hygiene – so make sure you brush at least twice a day and visit your dentist regularly.

Gum disease begins when bacteria grow in your mouth and build up due to poor brushing and flossing habits. This bacteria produces toxins that begin to break down the bone and connective tissue in your mouth. Without treatment, gum disease can cause swelling, redness, pain, and more. As it gets worse, more tissue is destroyed, and the tissues that anchor your teeth in place can be damaged, leading to loss of teeth.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a very common form of gum disease. 

Gingivitis causes irritation, redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. It does not cause bone loss but can lead to much more serious gum disease if left untreated, such as periodontitis.

Symptoms

·       Swollen or puffy gums

·       Bright red, dark red gums/gums that are darker than usual

·       Gums that bleed easily when you brush/floss

·       Tender gums

·       Bad breath

Periodontitis

Periodontitis, is also referred to as gum disease, and is a much more serious infection of the gums than gingivitis.

It damages the soft tissue around your teeth and, if left untreated, it can destroy the bone that supports your teeth, leading to loose teeth or even tooth loss entirely.

Symptoms

·       Swollen/puffy gums

·       Bright red, dark red, or dark purple gums

·       Gums that feel tender

·       Bleeding gums

·       Toothbrush is pink after brushing

·       Spitting blood when brushing or flossing

·       Persistent bad breath

·       Pus between teeth and gums

·       Loose teeth

·       Painful chewing

·       New spaces that look like black triangles between your teeth

·       Receding gums

·       Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

Contact Olivieri Dental Care for Dental Care in Hamilton

Regular dental checkups and cleaning help reduce the risk of gum disease, and help keep existing disease from getting worse.  Proper dental cleaning and hygiene habits, that we can help you learn and develop, also play an important role in reducing the risk of developing gingivitis and/or periodontitis.

At Olivieri Dental Care in Hamilton, we care about the health of your teeth and gums. Our periodontal services are aimed at helping you fight gum disease with a maintenance and treatment plan that’s tailored to you specifically.

Regular cleaning and checkups are important for preventing gum disease, and not every person has the same risk for contracting gingivitis or periodontitis.  Some people need a maintenance appointment every 6 months, some need every 4 months, and some people need a maintenance visit every 3 months!  Contact us to book an appointment and make sure your mouth stays healthy today.