Close-up of person's smile showing white teeth and healthy gums with finger pointing to lip.

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums surrounding your teeth. It is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. At Dove Family Dentistry in Bennington, TN, we are committed to helping our patients maintain good oral health, and that includes preventing and treating gum disease.

Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque, a sticky form of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings, it will harden into tartar (calculus). Tartar can irritate the gums and cause inflammation. As the disease progresses, it can damage the bone that supports your teeth.

Stages of Gum Disease

There are two main stages of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
  • Gingivitis: This is the early stage of gum disease. Symptoms of gingivitis can include red, swollen, or tender gums that bleed easily. Gingivitis is treatable with good oral hygiene and professional cleanings.
  • Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more serious gum infection that can damage the bone that supports your teeth. Symptoms of periodontitis can include all the symptoms of gingivitis, as well as loose teeth, persistent bad breath, and receding gums. Periodontitis cannot be cured, but it can be managed with treatment from a dentist.

Risk Factors for Gum Disease

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing gum disease, including:
  • Smoking or using chewing tobacco
  • Diabetes
  • Certain medications
  • Poorly fitting bridges or dentures
  • Crooked teeth
  • Old fillings
  • Pregnancy

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Here are some of the most common symptoms of gum disease:
  • Bleeding gums
  • Red, swollen, or tender gums
  • Gums that pull away from the teeth
  • Persistent bad breath or bad taste in your mouth
  • Pus between your teeth and gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Changes in the way your teeth fit together
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Treating Gum Disease

The treatment for gum disease will vary depending on the severity of the condition. Treatments for gum disease can include:
  • Non-surgical treatments: These treatments may include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline. Your dentist may also recommend using at-home periodontal trays.
  • Surgical treatments: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat gum disease. This could involve procedures to remove infected tissue or to regenerate bone that has been lost.
  • Dental implants: If you have lost teeth due to gum disease, dental implants can be used to replace them.

Preventing Gum Disease

The good news is that gum disease is preventable. Here are some tips for preventing gum disease:
  • Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time.
  • Floss daily.
  • See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings (usually every 6 months).
  • Eat a healthy diet.
  • Avoid smoking and tobacco use.
By following these tips, you can help keep your gums healthy and reduce your risk of developing gum disease.

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