If you’re like most of us, you probably grew up hearing that you need to brush your teeth and floss. However, as we get older, we can make our own choices. Unfortunately, for many Americans, those choices include not brushing our teeth at least twice a day and flossing.
Millions of Americans have at least one cavity, and almost 25% of Americans have not been to the dentist in five years!
Over 50% of Americans are suffering from the early stages of gum disease; that’s over 65 million people. Sadly, gum disease is becoming more common amongst Americans. In the later stages of gum disease, you can lose your teeth.
Here at MYCHN we understand that dental care is not always accessible, so we have done some homework on everything you need to know about the stages of gum disease and how to prevent it.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum Disease is the most common cause of tooth loss. Gum disease is caused by excessive bacteria growth in the mouth. Plaque, a bacteria, builds up on your teeth if you don’t brush. Over time, 72 hours to be exact, the plaque hardens and becomes tartar. Tarter makes it very difficult to clean your gums and teeth correctly.
Plaque and tarter release acidic toxins that eat away at the outer layer of your teeth. This outer layer is called the enamel. As time passes, toxins from plaque eat away at the enamel and gum tissue. This breakdown of connective gum tissue (tissue that keeps teeth firmly in place) leads to the eventual loss of the tooth.
What Are the Stages of Gum Disease?
- Gingivitis:Â Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontal disease or gum disease. In this stage, there is plaque buildup, but it has not reached the bones yet. Most symptoms of Gingivitis are painless, which makes it difficult to realize you have the disease. One notable symptom of Gingivitis is bleeding gums. Luckily, Gingivitis is reversible and preventable with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.
- Slight Periodical Disease: Slight periodical disease is the second phase of gum disease. Unfortunately, at this stage, gum disease is no longer reversible. However, it can be managed. At this stage, the bacteria has begun to destroy the bones.
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- Moderate Periodical Disease:Â By this stage, the bacteria have begun to multiply and decay the bones even further. In addition, the bacteria have started to attack the bloodstream.
- Advanced Periodontal Disease:Â This is the final stage of gum disease. At this stage, gums can become red and swollen, gums can ooze pus, teeth can be sensitive, you can have severe bad breath, chewing can be painful, and you can even lose your teeth from gum decay.
What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
The symptoms of gum disease can vary depending on what stage of gum disease an individual is experiencing. For example, there can be little to no symptoms in the early stages of gum disease. However, symptoms can range from severe pain to a loose tooth in the later stages of gum disease.
Here are some general warning signs (symptoms) that can indicate that you may have some form of gum disease:
- Bleeding during and after tooth brushing
- Red, swollen gums. (Healthy gums will be pink and firm.)
- Relentless bad breath or unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Receding gums
- Deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Loose or moving teeth
- Changes in the way teeth fit together when biting down
Your dentists will be able to identify whether or not you have gum disease or not. Your dentist can also determine the best treatment option.
What Can Cause Gum Disease?
The leading cause of gum disease is plaque buildup. This plaque builds up on teeth and releases toxins that decay the enamel of your teeth.
Other external factors can cause and contribute to gum disease. They include the following:
- Hormonal Changes
- Illnesses that affect the immune system
- Medications
- Smoking
- Inconsistent dental hygiene
- History of dental disease in the family.
What are the Treatment Options for Gum Disease?
There are a variety of different treatment options available for gum disease. These options depend on what stage of gum disease an individual is experiencing. There are non-surgical treatment options to help manage the growth of bacteria. In addition, there are also surgical options that rebuild the supportive tissues of the gums.
How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?
Thankfully, Gingivitis can be reversed entirely. The later stages of gum disease can be managed with plaque control. Here are some things you can do at home to prevent gum disease:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles get worn out
- Floss every day to reach plaque in between your teeth.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash – according to the American dental association. Mouthwash can reduce the bacteria that cause plaque and gum disease. Antibacterial mouthwash also fights bad breath!
- Avoid/Stop smokingÂ
- Have a balanced diet – foods with a lot of sugar and starch are gold mines for gum disease-causing bacteria.
Routine dental cleanings are great for preventing gum disease as well. Therefore, it is recommended you see your dentist every six months.
Are You Looking for Dental Treatment Near You?
Are you looking for dental services near you? If you’re located in the greater Houston area, MYCHN has you covered! We offer general dentistry services and accept most private insurance plans, CHIP Perinatal, Medicaid, Medicare, and other payment options are accepted.
Please visit our website to learn more about our services.
Unfortunately, dental health is not as accessible as it should be. Houston Case Managers is a great resource for affordable dental resources.Â
Bottom Line
Gum disease is very common in America. By age 65, 96% of Americans will have at least one cavity. Many of us often skip going to the dentist and even brushing twice a day. However, the consequences of skipping out on dentist visits and oral hygiene can be severe. The buildup of plaque can lead to gum disease.
Once gum disease progresses to stage 2, it is no longer reversible. You can even lose your teeth in the later stages of gum disease.
