Everything you need to know about gum disease

Everything you need to know about gum disease

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease refers to the periodontium – or the tissues that surround and protect the teeth. This condition erodes the gums and, eventually, the bone that supports the teeth. As a major threat to your oral health (and overall health), the office of Arnold Rifman DDS works closely with patients from across the Hollywood, California area to prevent gum disease and, when present, to identify it early on and treat it promptly before greater damage occurs.

Man showing signs of gum problems in Hollywood, CA

What causes periodontal disease?

Plaque is the primary cause of gum disease. This sticky film, composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva, constantly forms on the teeth. Fundamental cleaning behaviors, such as brushing and flossing, remove plaque. When plaque is not removed properly or consistently with good oral care, it builds up on the teeth.

Are some people at greater risk than others?

Yes! Individuals who do not brush and floss well or often are at greater risk of developing gum disease than those who take care of their teeth and gums every day. Additionally, certain habits, medical conditions, medications, and behaviors can affect the health of the gums and contribute to heightened inflammatory responses. These risk factors include:

  • Smoking, vaping, and tobacco use
  • Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune and immune system disorders
  • Medications that affect saliva production and periodontal health
  • Hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause
  • Diets that are high in sugary, starchy foods and low in nutrients such as vitamin C, calcium, and fiber

How does gum disease progress?

There are opportunities to “catch” and treat gum disease promptly. Interventions for early-stage gum disease are generally costly and invasive than treatments to resolve severe damage caused by later-stage gum disease. Early gum disease is known as gingivitis. It is characterized by inflammation. At this stage, the disease can be treated and its effects reversed with good home care and professional cleanings. If gingivitis is not treated, it progresses to periodontitis. It is characterized by infection below the gumline that affects the supporting bone and tissue attachments between the teeth and gums. At this stage, the effects cannot be reversed, but further damage can be prevented, and your gums may be healed with special, bacteria-fighting medications and in-office procedures.

Dentist getting ready to examine a patient’s gums in Hollywood, CA
Woman with a gummy smile in Hollywood, CA

What are the signs of gum disease?

Four out of five people have gum disease, and they don’t know it! Many oral conditions do not cause noticeable changes in the teeth, gums, and mouth early on, which makes it all the more important to visit your dentist regularly. During regular checkups, Dr. Rifman evaluates your teeth and gums for problems that may be lurking unnoticed and require treatment before they progress and cause damage. Signs that your gums are inflamed or worse include:

  • “Pink in the sink,” or blood on your toothbrush and floss when you clean your mouth
  • Gums that look redder or puffier than usual
  • A smile that appears “long in the tooth,” which is indicative of the gums pulling away from the teeth
  • Loose teeth and changes in spacing between the teeth (signs of advanced disease)
  • Tenderness when your gums are pressed or touched
  • Chronic bad breath (caused by oral bacteria)

If you notice these or other concerning changes, or are simply due for a checkup, call 323-466-2937 to schedule an appointment at the office of Arnold Rifman DDS in Hollywood, CA, today.