Gum Disease Frequently Asked Questions
Gum disease is a common and disruptive oral disease. It affects many people across the globe and of all socioeconomic statuses. Many people have it and do not even realize they suffer from the disease until it has done some real damage. We have a list of several frequently asked questions about gum disease.
1. What is gum disease? If you have not heard of gum disease before, then maybe you have heard of gingivitis. These are the same thing; they are both diseases that affect the mouth. It is a disease that starts with bacterial growth in you mouth; if this is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and even the bone and tissue around your teeth being damaged as well.
2. What is the difference between gum disease and periodontitis? Gum disease is the first stage between gingivitis and periodontitis. Periodontitis is a much more severe and untreatable version. However, you should know that not all cases of gingivitis progress to periodontitis. When someone suffers from periodontitis, the inner layer of the gum, as well as the bone, will pull away from your teeth and begin to form little pockets there. This is where debris will collect and can even become infected.
3. How can I tell if I have gum disease? This is tricky. It can arrive painlessly and without apparent symptoms, this is a reason we encourage regular exams. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, do not wait for your next checkup appointment to see us. Here are some of the symptoms:
4. Is it ever too late for treatment? Never! Please do not avoid treatment because you are embarrassed about this. There are many excellent techniques we can use at our Park Ridge dental office that will bring gum disease under control. Otherwise, you could lose teeth, supporting jawbone, and even ligaments that will affect your appearance, speech, and ability to eat.
5. Is it hereditary? Yes it is! Some people can be up to six times more susceptible but gum disease can also be transmitted in families via kissing, blowing on food, and sharing food or utensils. Anyone can be especially vulnerable at certain stages of life: adolescence, pregnancy, and mid-life, at the onset of diabetes or other inflammatory diseases, and during times of stress.
6. Is it avoidable? Yes, with regular home care and hygiene visits at our practice, you can prevent, treat, and sometimes even reverse gum disease.
Gum disease is a common and disruptive oral disease. It affects many people across the globe and of all socioeconomic statuses. Many people have it and do not even realize they suffer from the disease until it has done some real damage. We have a list of several frequently asked questions about gum disease.
1. What is gum disease? If you have not heard of gum disease before, then maybe you have heard of gingivitis. These are the same thing; they are both diseases that affect the mouth. It is a disease that starts with bacterial growth in you mouth; if this is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and even the bone and tissue around your teeth being damaged as well.
2. What is the difference between gum disease and periodontitis? Gum disease is the first stage between gingivitis and periodontitis. Periodontitis is a much more severe and untreatable version. However, you should know that not all cases of gingivitis progress to periodontitis. When someone suffers from periodontitis, the inner layer of the gum, as well as the bone, will pull away from your teeth and begin to form little pockets there. This is where debris will collect and can even become infected.
3. How can I tell if I have gum disease? This is tricky. It can arrive painlessly and without apparent symptoms, this is a reason we encourage regular exams. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, do not wait for your next checkup appointment to see us. Here are some of the symptoms:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums, or other pain in your mouth
- Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating
- Gums that are shrinking or pulling away from teeth
- Persistent bad breath
4. Is it ever too late for treatment? Never! Please do not avoid treatment because you are embarrassed about this. There are many excellent techniques we can use at our Park Ridge dental office that will bring gum disease under control. Otherwise, you could lose teeth, supporting jawbone, and even ligaments that will affect your appearance, speech, and ability to eat.
5. Is it hereditary? Yes it is! Some people can be up to six times more susceptible but gum disease can also be transmitted in families via kissing, blowing on food, and sharing food or utensils. Anyone can be especially vulnerable at certain stages of life: adolescence, pregnancy, and mid-life, at the onset of diabetes or other inflammatory diseases, and during times of stress.
6. Is it avoidable? Yes, with regular home care and hygiene visits at our practice, you can prevent, treat, and sometimes even reverse gum disease.
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