Gum Disease

Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It's extremely common, affecting nearly half of adults over 30 to some degree. The condition ranges from simple gum inflammation (gingivitis) to serious damage that can result in tooth loss. See our Gum Disease Treatment page for detailed treatment information.

Stages of Gum Disease

Gingivitis (Early Stage)

The mildest form, gingivitis causes red, swollen gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing. At this stage, there's no bone or tissue damage, and the condition is reversible with professional treatment and improved home care.

Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)

If gingivitis progresses untreated, it becomes periodontitis. Gums pull away from teeth, forming infected pockets. The immune system fights the bacteria, but toxins from bacteria and the body's own response break down bone and connective tissue. Without treatment, teeth become loose and may fall out.

Symptoms

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Receding gums (teeth appear longer)
• Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Changes in bite or denture fit
• Pus between teeth and gums
• Painful chewing

Important: Gum disease is often painless until advanced stages. Regular dental check-ups detect problems before symptoms appear.

Causes and Risk Factors

Plaque buildup is the primary cause, but numerous factors increase risk:

• Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing
• Smoking or tobacco use: Most significant risk factor
• Genetics: Some people are more susceptible
• Diabetes: Increases risk and severity
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menstruation, menopause
• Medications: Some reduce saliva flow
• Diseases: HIV/AIDS, cancer treatment
• Stress: Weakens immune response
• Poor nutrition: Especially vitamin C deficiency
• Teeth grinding: Puts excess force on teeth
• Crooked teeth: Harder to clean effectively

Complications

Beyond tooth loss, gum disease has been linked to:

• Heart disease: Bacteria may contribute to clogged arteries
• Stroke: Increased risk with severe periodontitis
• Diabetes complications: Worsens blood sugar control
• Respiratory disease: Bacteria may be inhaled into lungs
• Pregnancy complications: Premature birth, low birth weight
• Rheumatoid arthritis: May worsen inflammation

Prevention

• Brush teeth twice daily for 2 minutes
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Use antimicrobial mouthwash
• Visit dentist regularly (every 6 months minimum)
• Don't smoke or use tobacco
• Eat a balanced diet
• Manage diabetes if applicable
• Recognize early warning signs

Treatment

Professional Cleaning

For gingivitis, professional cleaning (scale and polish) combined with improved home care usually resolves the condition.

Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)

For periodontitis, deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths root surfaces to help gums reattach.

Medications

Antibiotics may be prescribed as mouthwash, gel, or pills to control bacterial infection.

Surgery

Advanced cases may require flap surgery, bone grafts, soft tissue grafts, or guided tissue regeneration.

See our comprehensive Gum Disease Treatment page for detailed information about all treatment options.

Prognosis

With early detection and proper treatment, gum disease can be controlled and even reversed in early stages. However, once periodontitis causes bone loss, that damage is permanent (though bone grafts can help). The key is catching the disease early and maintaining diligent oral care.

Special Considerations

For Smokers

Smoking dramatically increases gum disease risk and reduces treatment success. Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps you can take for your oral health.

For Diabetics

Diabetes and gum disease have a two-way relationship – each condition worsens the other. Controlling both is essential.

During Pregnancy

Pregnancy hormones increase susceptibility to gingivitis. Regular dental visits during pregnancy are safe and important.

Don't ignore bleeding gums or other warning signs. Early treatment is simpler, less expensive, and more effective. Regular dental check-ups catch gum disease in its earliest, most treatable stages.