Tips to Prevent Gum Disease

As April is Oral Health Month, it is an excellent opportunity to remind ourselves about the importance of the health of our teeth and gums in relation to our overall health. In particular, we would like to focus on one of the most common oral health issues: Periodontitis (Gum Disease). According to the Canadian Dental Association, 7 out of 10 Canadians will develop gum disease at some time in their lives, and the risks can increase with age. However, the damage can be stopped if periodontitis is treated early and proper oral hygiene is maintained.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a serious infection of the gums, caused by the accumulation of bacteria on the teeth and gums. When bacteria stay on the teeth for long enough, they form a film called plaque. If plaque is not properly removed by daily brushing and flossing, it can harden to tartar or calculus, which can only be removed by a dental health professional.

Besides poor oral hygiene, certain factors can put you at a higher risk of periodontitis, including:

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Conditions that impact your immune system, such as HIV or leukemia
• Genetics
• Taking medications that cause dry mouth
• Female hormonal changes, such as with pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives

Stages of Gum Disease

Inflammation (gingivitis):

Your gums may look red and swollen. You may notice some blood when you brush your teeth or floss, although there may not be any pain. Gingivitis can be prevented and/or reversed by maintaining good daily oral hygiene. If left untreated, it will often progress into periodontitis.

Periodontitis:

Periodontitis affects the bone and gums that support and keep teeth in their place. In the early stages, your gums pull away from your teeth and small pockets form between gums and teeth. Bacteria can get into these pockets and can cause bone loss. You may experience bleeding and pain around the teeth, as well as persistent bad breath.

In advanced stages of periodontitis, your teeth may become loose when the gums, bones, and other tissue that support your teeth decay. You may experience severe pain while chewing, severe bad breath, or a foul taste in your mouth. At that point you are at risk of losing your teeth.