Gum disease is a common oral health issue that affects people of all ages. It can start off mild and easy to ignore, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious problems—including tooth loss. The good news is that gum disease is often preventable and treatable, especially when caught early.

In this article, you’ll learn what gum disease is, what causes it, how to spot the signs, and what treatments are available.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that support your teeth. It usually begins with the buildup of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar and cause inflammation in the gums.

There are two main stages of gum disease:

• Gingivitis – This is the early and milder form. The gums become red, swollen, and may bleed when you brush or floss. Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings.
• Periodontitis – If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can turn into periodontitis. This is a more serious condition where the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth, forming pockets. These pockets can collect bacteria and lead to bone and tooth loss.

What Causes Gum Disease?

The main cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene, but several other factors can increase your risk. These include:

• Plaque buildup – Not brushing and flossing regularly allows plaque to form and harden into tartar.
• Smoking or chewing tobacco – These habits reduce blood flow to the gums and make it harder for the tissue to heal.
• Poor diet – A lack of essential nutrients, especially vitamin C, can weaken your gums and immune system.
• Hormonal changes – Pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause can make gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation.
• Health conditions – Diabetes, HIV, and certain illnesses can increase the risk of infections, including gum disease.
• Medications – Some drugs cause dry mouth or gum overgrowth, which can make it easier for bacteria to thrive.
• Genetics – Some people are more likely to develop gum disease due to inherited factors.

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

The signs of gum disease can be easy to miss at first, especially during the early stages. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to your oral health and visit the dentist regularly.

Common symptoms include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
• Receding gums (gums pulling away from the teeth)
• Sensitive teeth
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pain when chewing

If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them. The earlier gum disease is caught, the easier it is to treat.

How Is Gum Disease Diagnosed?

Your dentist or dental hygienist will check for signs of gum disease during your regular dental visits. They may:

• Measure the depth of the pockets between your gums and teeth
• Look for gum recession, inflammation, or bleeding
• Check for loose teeth or bone loss using X-rays

These exams help determine how advanced the gum disease is and what type of treatment is needed.

How Is Gum Disease Treated?

The treatment for gum disease depends on how severe it is. Here are the most common approaches:

1. Improved Oral Hygiene
   For early-stage gum disease (gingivitis), better brushing and flossing can make a big difference. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily. An antibacterial mouthwash may also help reduce bacteria.
2. Professional Dental Cleaning
   A dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar that you can’t reach with brushing alone. If gingivitis is caught early, a professional cleaning may be all that’s needed to reverse it.
3. Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
   For more advanced gum disease, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning. Scaling removes tartar from above and below the gumline, while root planing smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach.
4. Medications
   In some cases, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics (in pill or gel form) to help control infection and inflammation.
5. Surgical Treatments
   If gum disease has caused significant damage, surgery may be needed. Common procedures include:

• Flap surgery – Lifting the gums to clean under them and then stitching them back in place
• Bone and tissue grafts – Replacing damaged bone or gum tissue with natural or synthetic material

These procedures aim to reduce pocket depth, regenerate lost bone, and support healthy gum reattachment.

How Can Gum Disease Be Prevented?

Good daily habits are the best defense against gum disease. Here are some simple tips:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time
• Floss daily to remove plaque between your teeth and under the gumline
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist
• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
• Avoid tobacco products
• Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings (usually every 6 months)

If you have a higher risk for gum disease (such as diabetes or a family history), your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

Conclusion

Gum disease is more common than many people realize, but it’s also very treatable—especially when caught early. By understanding the causes and symptoms, you can take steps to protect your gums and prevent long-term damage. Good oral hygiene, a healthy lifestyle, and regular dental care are your best tools for keeping your mouth healthy and your smile bright.

Taking care of your gums is just as important as caring for your teeth—because healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile.

If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a teeth whitening consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us at St James Dental Group at 323-771-7254. Our team of skilled dental professionals is always here to provide you with the highest quality care and help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

By: Ladan Zinati