Gum disease is a chronic infection that affects a large number of adults, many of whom are unaware they even have it. In the United States, one out of every two adults aged 30 and over has periodontal (gum) disease. In adults aged 65 and older, 70% suffer from gum disease. Most also don’t realize that gum disease can have a negative impact on the entire body’s health, including increasing the risk of serious disease such as stroke, heart disease, and diabetes.
How to Tell if You Have Gum Disease
Healthy gums make your smile attractive, but they also serve another important purpose: protecting your teeth from bacteria and decay.
If you do not know if your gums are healthy, Dr. Mancuso will conduct a thorough examination. He will also ask you about any symptoms you might be experiencing. Although it often is present without symptoms, gum disease sufferers often experience the following:
- Bleeding gums, particularly when you brush your teeth
- Bad breath that persists, in spite of good brushing habits
- Gums that are often red and swollen
- Teeth that appear to be longer because gums have pulled away from them
- Teeth that are becoming loose
- The presence of pus between teeth and gums
- Spacing between your teeth
Causes of Gum Disease
It might surprise many people that poor oral hygiene is not the main cause of gum disease. Poor oral hygiene allows gum disease to progress more rapidly, but the number one cause is a specific bacteria and how your body responds to it. This bacteria lives in the plaque and tartar which stick to your teeth. A toothbrush cannot remove the tartar, which is why a professional cleaning is important. The infection causes the gums to separate from the teeth and destroys the bone that the teeth sit in. Other factors, such as diabetes and smoking can also contribute to gum disease and cause it to progress quicker. Untreated gum disease will lead to tooth loss.