It begins when the bacteria and other food particles that cause tooth decay move down into the gums. If left untreated, this condition can turn into mild gum inflammation and then into serious gum disease that can affect not only the gums but also the teeth and supporting bone. When periodontal disease advances, the infection infiltrates the bone structures that hold the teeth in place and ultimately can lead to tooth loss. Early stages of the disease can be painful and, if not approached aggressively, the disease can be destructive and costly. Periodontal disease is classified according to the severity of the disease as gingivitis or periodontitis. Gingivitis is reversible, but when left untreated, it can lead to the more serious periodontitis. Periodontitis is the most common cause of tooth loss among adults. Here are some additional facts about the two:
- Gingivitis: Your gums can become inflamed and reddened. They may even bleed, especially when you floss. Most of the time, you have no associated pain. This condition is reversible if you seek dental treatment and initiate good dental hygiene at home.
- Periodontitis: If you fail to treat your gingivitis, you may end up with this more serious inflammatory condition. The inflammation causes the gums and bone to start receding leaving small pockets around the teeth for more bacteria and plaque to congregate. This continues the disease process and eventually the bone may extend where the teeth are anchored and tooth loss may result. Some risk factors for periodontal disease include
- Smoking: Cigarette smoke contains thousands of chemicals including formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, ammonia, arsenic tar, and nicotine. These chemicals affect gum healing by decreasing blood flow and also causing inflammation of the gums.
- Dry mouth: Dry mouth (xerostomia) is decreased production of saliva.
Saliva is needed in the mouth to wash away food particles and bacteria. Saliva can neutralize acids and therefore deter plaque formation.
- Hormonal changes in females: Hormonal shifts that cause elevated levels of progesterone increase your risk of gum disease. Pregnancy, parts of the menstrual cycle, and possibly some birth control pills can all result in elevated progesterone levels. Progesterone dilates blood vessels and can block collagen, which can lead to swelling and inflammation. Gum disease is a common complaint during pregnancy and right before periods begin.
- Diabetes: Research supports that diabetics with poor control of their blood sugars are more likely to develop gum disease. Because diabetes affects immune function and increases risk of infection, it's more difficult for diabetics to fight off the bacteria that causes periodontal disease.
- Medications: A few medications are implicated in gum disease. Oral contraceptives, anti-depressants, and some blood pressure medicines are found to cause dry mouth. Other medications, such as anti-seizure and some heart medications, can cause the gums to enlarge, which can increase inflammation and increase collection of plaque.
- Genetic susceptibility: It isn't clear what the genetic link is, but it's estimated that about 30 percent of the population have an increased susceptibility to periodontal disease. This requires these people to pay more attention to preventative measures and regular dental care.
