Periodontal disease is the medical term for gum disease. It is a bacterial infection and inflammation of the gums and affects an estimated 47 percent of adults over the age of 30. It often goes undetected because its early stages do not hurt. Gum disease is commonly caused by hardened tartar at the gum line. At the same time, increased risk factors like regular tobacco use and medical conditions can accelerate the periodontal infection.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. Some of the early symptoms include red or inflamed gums that bleed easily during brushing and flossing and bad breath. If you are dealing with any of these symptoms, the issue could possibly be reversed by consistent improvements in your daily oral hygiene routine and regular dental cleanings.
If gum disease symptoms go ignored, it will eventually develop into the more advanced form, which is known as periodontitis. This degree of infection and inflammation is deep in the gum tissue and can cause your gums to pull away from the base of your teeth. This makes a perfect place for infection to form. Over time can even cause the loss of bone structure and tooth loss. Periodontitis often results in systemic inflammation that can tax your immune system. Continuing research has found that this can be related to other medical conditions and diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis and certain types of cancer.
If you are concerned that you might be developing periodontal disease in Charlotte, North Carolina, you should call 704-366-3526 to seek timely treatment with Dr. Drew Hines.