Treatment is the key to living a long, healthy life with periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease is not life-threatening. However, because it’s a progressive condition, leaving it untreated can lead to serious complications—including tooth loss and increased risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease.
The good news? You can live a long and healthy life with periodontal disease when it’s properly managed through treatment and professional care. As with any chronic condition, the earlier you intervene, the better your long-term outcomes.
Why Is Gum Disease So Serious?
Periodontal disease is the most advanced form of gum disease. It occurs when bacteria and plaque build up on your teeth and gums, leading to inflammation and infection of the gum tissue.
At first, you may notice gum swelling and bleeding when brushing. But over time, the infection can spread deeper into the bone and tissue that support your teeth. This can lead to:
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Tooth loss
- Pus-filled pockets on the gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
- A bad taste in your mouth
Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Diabetes and other chronic health conditions
- Genetic predisposition
Although it begins in the mouth, gum disease can affect the whole body. According to Harvard Health, having periodontal disease may triple your risk of a heart attack or stroke. That’s why early detection and treatment are so important.
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
Early Stage: Gingivitis
Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, is reversible. Non-surgical procedures like scaling and root planing can remove plaque and bacteria from beneath the gum line. When combined with improved oral hygiene, gingivitis can be fully reversed.
Advanced Periodontitis
If the disease has progressed to periodontitis, more advanced interventions may be necessary. These include:
- Surgical flap procedures to clean deep pockets
- Bone grafts to restore lost bone structure
- Gum grafts to repair receding gum tissue
- Antibiotic therapy to control bacterial infections
While these treatments won’t fully restore lost bone and tissue, they can stop the disease’s progression and preserve your oral health—especially when paired with ongoing dental care.
Tips to Prevent Gum Disease
Prevention starts with strong oral hygiene habits:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss once a day to remove plaque between teeth
- Use antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria
- Limit sugar and starches, which fuel bacterial growth
- Quit smoking to protect both your gums and heart
- Get professional cleanings at least twice per year
And most importantly, visit your dentist regularly—especially if you notice bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession.
For Healthy Gums, See Your Local Espire Dentist
At Espire Dental, our highly trained team can identify and treat gum disease at any stage. Whether you're noticing early symptoms or have been managing periodontitis for years, we’re here to help you protect your teeth—and your health.
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