Gum Disease
Gum disease (periodontal disease/periodontitis) is the leading cause of tooth loss worldwide.
It is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. It is caused by a build-up of plaque on your teeth/gums which, if left too long on gums, hardens to form calculus/tartar that can only be removed by your dentist. It can begin and progress without any obvious symptoms. A thorough examination of your gums and jaw bones is the only accurate way to determine if you have gum disease. If allowed to progress, it causes destruction of underlying bone, recess of gums and ultimately loss of teeth.
Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating is a common symptom of gum disease. While it does not indicate the level of severity of the disease or complexity of the treatment required, it does require prompt attention by your dentist as it may compromise your general health and your gum condition could worsen. The absence of bleeding also is not an accurate indicator that gum disease is not present. This can often be the case in smokers.
Gum recession can also be a symptom. But it could be indicative of other problems such as over-brushing. Early detection and treatment of gum disease can help you preserve your teeth and smile. Though, in some cases, this condition can be so severe and/or widespread that it needs referral to a specialist so that this condition can be treated promptly.
Gum disease is associated with many health conditions. For example, heart attacks and strokes are more common when the gum disease exists. It can also complicate blood sugar management in diabetic patients and high blood sugar worsens gum disease. www.perio.org/consumer/mbc.heart.htm
