Gum disease is another name for periodontal disease. It’s a common oral health condition that affects the gums, bones, and ligaments that support the teeth. It can range from mild gingivitis, which causes gum inflammation, to more severe forms of periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss if not properly treated. The impact of gum disease on quality of life can be significant and affect various aspects of a person’s well-being.
Oral Health Discomfort
Gum disease often causes symptoms such as bleeding gums, bad breath, gum swelling, and tooth sensitivity. These discomforts can make eating, drinking, and even speaking more challenging and less enjoyable.
Pain
As gum disease progresses, it can cause your gums to recede and bone loss around the teeth. This can cause pain and discomfort, especially while chewing or when pressure is applied to the affected areas.
Tooth Loss
Advanced gum disease can result in the loosening and eventual loss of teeth. Tooth loss not only affects the ability to eat and speak properly but also impacts a person’s self-esteem and confidence.
Nutritional Impact
Pain, sensitivity, and difficulty chewing due to gum disease can affect dietary choices. People with gum disease may avoid certain foods that require extensive chewing, leading to a potentially imbalanced diet.
Seeking Treatment
Untreated gum disease can allow harmful bacteria to spread from your mouth to other parts of your body, potentially contributing to systemic health issues such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory problems. Seeking treatment can have a positive impact on your oral and overall health.
A thorough examination of your gums and teeth will give you and your dentist an idea of the extent of damage to your gums and the best available option for treatment. Treatments of mild cases can be as simple as improved oral hygiene practices or even professional cleanings. If you have a more advanced type of gum disease, treatments can be scaling, root planing, gum surgery, or other interventions.
If you’re experiencing bleeding, red, or swelling gums, gum sensitivity, pain, discomfort, or other oral issues, be sure to contact the staff at Soft Touch Dental Care. Located in Oakton, VA, Dr. Chung has been in the dental field for over 15 years. He’s part of several dental associations and volunteers his time to those in need of dental care but can’t afford it. Call 703-319-6990 to schedule your appointment.
