In Canada, we are witnessing a rise in the devastating effect that gum disease has on the oral and general health of patients. Gum disease is a chronic inflammation of the tissues that support the teeth, which is termed periodontitis. This result forms from the collection of plaque and calculus, leading to an inflammatory response and infection that eventually destroys support bone for teeth. Gum disease is amazingly pervasive. In fact, studies show that more than half of adults in Red Deer have some form of gum disease. It is such a silent epidemic that many hardly notice it until advanced stages provide serious consequences tooth loss and bad breath or systemic health problems. Hence in this blog let’s explore everything about gum diseases, signs of unhealthy gums, and consequences.

What is a Gum Disease?

Periodontal, or gum, disease is a bacterial infection of the gums and bones that support your teeth. It most often begins with plaque building up along the gum line, causing inflammation and bleeding of the gums called gingivitis. When left untreated, it can develop into the more serious type, which affects the tissues that support teeth and can eventually lead to gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss. You must see a local dentist near you for diagnosis and, if needed, treatment with the utmost urgency to prevent further damage.

How Does Gum Disease Develop?

Gum disease is a disease that progresses very gradually, starting with mild irritation, and if left untreated, it can turn out to be serious. It generally starts with poor hygiene of the mouth, which lets bacteria grow and form plaque in the mouth, affecting eventually the gums and tissues surrounding the teeth.

Here’s how gum disease develops:

• Plaque Formation: A sticky film called plaque is formed when bacteria in the mouth are combined with food particles.
• Gum Inflammation (Gingivitis): This plaque building will cause redness, bleeding, and swelling, especially during brushing or flossing.
• Tartar Formation: Plaques when not removed turn into tartar which is even harder to remove and require professional dental cleaning or teeth whitening.
• Progression to Periodontitis: Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis leading to bone loss and, in severe cases, tooth loss. Here is where gums pull away from teeth over time.

Six Symptoms of Gum Disease

Here are a few of the most common symptoms observed when you have dental problems such as gum disease. So you can decide whether to opt for treatment options for gum disease or not.

1. Red, Swollen Gums: Inflammation is one of the earliest signs, with gums appearing puffy and red.
2. Bleeding Gums: Bleeding from the gums during brushing or flossing, especially in its early stages-gingivitis-is possible.
3. Bad Breath: Bad breath or a bad metallic taste in the mouth, which does not go away, is a sign that bacteria are building up.
4. Receding Gums: Gums start to recede from the teeth and make the teeth appear longer.
5. Loose Teeth: In its advanced stages, bone deterioration may cause the teeth to shift or even loosen.
6. Pain While Chewing: You might feel discomfort and immense sensitivity while eating cold or hot food.

Consequences of Untreated Gum Disease

Here are the following dire consequences mentioned below. Remember you may experience these demeriting factors develop when you leave your gum diseases untreated.

• Tooth Loss: When gum disease advances, the bone and tissues that keep teeth in place weaken, which causes teeth to fall out or become loose.
• Receding Gums: This is where gum recession makes the roots of teeth get exposed; this boosts the risk of decaying and sensitivity within the tooth.
• Jawbone Deterioration: Primarily, this happens in the case of a serious kind of gum disease, which makes the bone underneath the jaw area start weakening and changes facial structure.
• Risk of systemic health complications: It has, in fact, been connected in research with severe diseases like heart conditions, diabetes, and even respiratory infections if left unattended.
• Painful or Discomforting: This is due to the chronic swelling and infection of the area, with persistent pain occurring even while eating and speaking.

Be Aware! Visit Heritage Family Dental

It is better to adopt a prevention approach when focusing to counter gum diseases. The best way to do this reaching out to a dental expert for regular checkups. As you can see the consequences can gravely impact your daily lives, especially the way you eat and smile freely. Hence make a wise decision, and visit Heritage Family Dental, your trustworthy Dentist in Red Deer treating gum diseases from many years.

At Heritage Family Dental we believe in preserving your smile and making you feel confident for yourself. Learn our comprehensive approach to your dental care and experience our comfort-oriented dental services in Red Deer. Let’s build a smiling future together.