7 Facts About Gum Disease That You Should Be Aware Of

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Gum disease is a condition that occurs when the number of bacteria in your mouth increases dramatically, leading to gum inflammation. Today, there is a lot of misinformation about gum disease, its symptoms, causes, treatment, and complications. To help you be aware of this condition, we have gathered these seven facts about gum disease. 

1. Gum disease is quite common 

One of the most common myths about gum disease is that it affects only the elderly and/or smokers. Even though these people are more likely to develop this condition, everyone from children to adults can get it. That’s why it is extremely important to visit a dental office twice a year for examinations. 

2. Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of gum disease

Since gum disease occurs because of bacteria overgrowth, poor oral hygiene is deemed the most common and obvious cause of this condition. You should understand that your mouth is full of bacteria and if you don't remove them with the help of tooth brushing and flossing, they will multiply. Additionally, poor oral hygiene can cause tartar buildup that also contributes to gum disease. 

3. Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease

Many people think that gum bleeding (especially if it occurs only during tooth brushing) can be considered normal. But healthy gums usually don’t bleed and this issue is usually sign of developing gum disease. You should understand that in the initial stages, gum disease may cause mild symptoms like bad breath and gum bleeding. If you start treating it in time, you can cure your gums successfully. 

4. A healthy diet can help prevent gum disease

It is essential to understand that the foods and drinks you consume can either improve or worsen your oral health. For example, eating sweets and drinking sweet soda can promote bacterial overgrowth. That’s why you should eat more vegetables, leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts, and dairy products. Green tea and cacao can also help reduce gum inflammation. Additionally, you need to drink more water to flush away the bacteria from your mouth.

5. Some risk factors can increase your risk of gum disease

Indeed, gum disease is caused by poor oral hygiene, but there are some risk factors that can increase your risk of gum inflammation. The most common of them are:

- Aging

- Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)

- A family history of gum disease

- Stress

- Certain medications

- Vitamin C deficiency

- Obesity

- Hormonal imbalance

- Teeth grinding

- Diabetes and other systemic diseases

If you are prone to gum disease, you need to pay more attention to your oral hygiene and avoid skipping regular dental exams. 

6. Gum disease can affect your overall health

Many people think that gum disease is a condition that can affect only teeth and gums. But this condition can also affect your overall health, since bacteria can enter your bloodstream through bleeding gums. People with gum disease can be more likely to develop diabetes, stroke, heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, and respiratory infections. Gum disease has also been connected to pregnancy complications.

7. Advanced gum disease can’t be cured

Unfortunately, gum disease can only be successfully cured  in its initial stage called gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress and turn into periodontitis that can cause the following symptoms:

- Gum pockets

- Pus between the teeth

- Severe gum bleeding

- Loose teeth 

- Tooth and bone loss

Even though periodontitis can’t be cured completely, there are a lot of treatment options that can help manage its symptoms and improve the condition of your teeth and gums.