Gum disease is common and sneaky. It starts as mild gingivitis—swollen, bleeding gums—and can move into periodontitis, where the bone that holds your teeth gets damaged. Left alone, it can make teeth loose and even cause tooth loss. Early gum disease is treatable and preventable with simple steps.
Want to know what to look for? Watch for gums that bleed when you brush or floss, persistent bad breath, red or shiny gums, receding gum lines, and loose teeth. Pain is not always present. Book a dental checkup soon. Your dentist can measure pocket depths, check for bone loss with x-rays, and suggest cleaning or deeper treatments.
Home care matters. Brush twice a day with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended. Replace your brush every three months. Smoking makes gum disease worse and slows healing, so quitting helps a lot. Also, control conditions like diabetes that raise your risk.
Professional care often starts with a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar below the gum line. Some people need antibiotics, laser therapy, or minor surgery to restore gum health. Your dentist will pick the right plan based on severity and how your gums respond to treatment.
Don’t overlook lifestyle choices. A diet low in sugar and rich in vitamin C and calcium supports gum tissue. Stress weakens your immune response and can make infections worse, so try to manage stress with sleep, exercise, or simple breathing techniques. Regular dental visits every six months catch problems early when treatment is easiest.
See your dentist right away if your gums bleed often, stay swollen, or if you notice pus or loose teeth. Also check in when bad breath doesn’t improve after brushing. Early visits mean simpler care and better chances to reverse damage.
Treatments range from stronger cleanings to antibiotics, special mouthwashes, or minor surgery. Your dentist will explain risks and what to expect. After treatment you’ll need a maintenance plan with more frequent cleanings and better home care to keep gums healthy long term. Ask for a written plan today.
Risk factors add up: poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, certain medications that reduce saliva, hormonal changes during pregnancy, and genetic factors. If you have any of these, tell your dentist so they can tailor care. During a visit expect probing to map pocket depths, x-rays if needed, and a discussion about smoking cessation or blood sugar control. If you need treatment, you might get local anesthesia for deep cleanings, a short antibiotic course, or a referral for gum surgery if pockets are severe. Aftercare matters: follow instructions, keep clean, and attend follow-up visits. If you floss and brush correctly and keep regular cleanings, many people stop disease progression and keep their natural teeth for life. Ask your dentist for a written timeline and clear goals you can track daily easily.
