Gum disease can be easy to overlook. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) describes periodontal (gum) disease as an infection that causes inflammation of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It often starts quietly, with changes you might blame on brushing too hard. Paying attention to those first changes gives you and your dentist the best chance to act early. This guide covers what to watch for, what causes gum disease, and how it is treated.
What Causes Gum Disease?
According to the NIDCR, gum disease is typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, to build up on the teeth. If plaque is not removed every day, it can harden into tartar, which only a dentist or dental hygienist can remove. The bacteria in plaque and tartar can trigger inflammation that damages the gums and the tissues supporting the teeth. The NIDCR notes that several risk factors exist, and that smoking or using tobacco products is the most significant.
Early Signs of Gum Disease
The NIDCR says gum disease starts with swollen, red, and bleeding gums. Signs to watch for include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily, for example when you brush or floss
- Gums that pull away from the teeth, making the teeth look longer
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose or sensitive teeth
- Pain while chewing
At Oral Health Associates, we also point out that periodontal disease does not always cause obvious symptoms, which is why regular checkups matter. If bleeding gums do not go away, tell your dentist at your next visit.
Why Early Attention Matters
The NIDCR explains that early gum disease, caused by plaque buildup, can often be reversed by daily brushing and flossing. Once it has progressed, people need treatment from a dentist or dental hygienist. In advanced gum disease, the bone supporting the teeth can be destroyed, which may cause teeth to loosen and shift. Because the early signs can be mild, a regular exam is one of the best ways to catch changes sooner.
How Gum Disease Is Diagnosed
The NIDCR says a dentist or dental hygienist will examine your gums for inflammation, bleeding, and receding. They may use a small ruler called a probe to measure the spaces, or pockets, around your teeth. In a healthy mouth these pockets are usually between 1 and 3 millimeters, and deeper pockets can be a sign of periodontal disease. Your dentist may also review your medical history, check your teeth, and take x-rays to look for bone loss.
How We Approach Periodontal Treatment
Treatment varies with the extent of the disease. At Oral Health Associates in Green Bay, our approach to periodontal treatment starts by evaluating your oral hygiene and offering instructions on how to improve the care of your teeth. We then use hand and ultrasonic instruments for debridement, root planing, or scaling, which remove tartar, calculus, and plaque from the tooth surfaces and exposed roots. We may also include antimicrobial products or antibiotics during treatment to reduce the risk of surgery and to reduce the depth of any developed pockets. Occasionally, surgery may be needed when pockets become deep and the gum tissue is particularly inflamed. If we believe your treatment should include surgery, we will discuss the procedure and our thoughts on the best course of action with you. Learn more about our periodontics services.
Helping Protect Your Gums at Home
The NIDCR suggests you can keep your gums and teeth healthy by:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing regularly to remove plaque from between teeth, or using an interdental brush, a wooden or plastic pick, or a water flosser recommended by a dental professional
- Visiting the dentist routinely for a checkup and professional cleaning
- Quitting all forms of tobacco
We recommend seeing your Green Bay dentist every six months to help prevent periodontal disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bleeding when I brush normal?
Gums that bleed easily are one of the early signs the NIDCR lists for gum disease. If it does not go away, mention it to your dentist.
Can early gum disease be reversed?
The NIDCR says early gum disease caused by plaque buildup can often be reversed by daily brushing and flossing. Your dentist can tell you what stage you are at.
Can I have gum disease without pain?
Yes. Periodontal disease does not always present obvious symptoms, so regular exams are important.
Schedule a Visit in Green Bay
If you have noticed red, swollen, or bleeding gums, or it has been a while since your last checkup, we are here to help. Call Oral Health Associates at (920) 437-3376 or visit our website to request an appointment. We are located at 315 S Monroe Ave, Green Bay, WI 54301. New to our office? See what to expect on our first visit page.
