Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and it’s caused by bacterial buildup on your teeth. You can usually treat this condition with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits to remove plaque.
Periodontitis is the next stage and it’s caused by inflammation of the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth. In this case, your gums can pull away from your teeth, creating gaps called “periodontal pockets.” This causes bacteria and food to collect in those spaces, causing more damage to the tissues that hold your teeth in place.
The first signs of gingivitis include red and swollen gums that may bleed when you brush your teeth or floss. You also might have persistent bad breath or gums that are receding, which indicates that they’re losing their normal attachment to your teeth.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible to have them treated. This can help prevent the development of more serious problems, such as periodontitis.
Early Treatment (Level 3): You’ll receive education on how to care for your teeth and gums at home. This includes making sure you brush and floss properly and visiting your dentist for professional cleanings twice a year.
Your dentist can also recommend oral antibiotics to help fight infection and reduce swelling in your gums. You’ll need to continue these treatments until the disease has been controlled.
Give Up Tobacco: Smoking is a leading cause of both gingivitis and periodontitis, so quit now to improve your oral health. You’ll reduce your risk for more serious issues like bone loss, loose teeth and painful chewing.
Twice-yearly checkups and professional cleanings are important in stopping the progression of gum disease. If you’re diagnosed with periodontitis, your dentist might recommend a special mouthwash to help control the bacteria in your gum pockets.
You can also talk to your dentist about switching to a gum disease-specific toothpaste that will help treat the problem.
A healthy diet and exercise routine are also important for maintaining your oral health. You’ll want to keep your teeth as clean and healthy as possible, so make sure you’re eating plenty of fruits and vegetables.
It’s also crucial to make sure you’re getting enough calcium, which is critical for bone strength. You’ll need to consume at least 500 milligrams of calcium each day.
Other factors that can increase your risk for gum disease include smoking, poor oral hygiene habits, stress and certain medical conditions such as diabetes. You should seek regular dental examinations to catch any issues early.
Your dentist will also provide you with information on how to improve your oral health habits, such as changing toothbrushes or adding flossing to your daily routine.
Maintaining good oral hygiene practices will help you stop the progression of gum disease from gingivitis to periodontitis. If you do not, your mouth will become more prone to other health problems, such as heart disease and stroke.
In addition, you should consider reducing your stress levels and taking steps to manage your overall health. Studies show that people who have periodontitis are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke.
