Periodontal (Gum) Disease: What Is It? Symptoms, Classification, and Treatment

Are you experiencing bleeding gums, bad breath, or swelling in your mouth? These could be the early warning signs of periodontal disease. 

But did you know that there are actually different types of periodontal disease and they are classified based on their severity and symptoms? 

In this blog post, we will explore these various types of gum diseases and what you can do to prevent them from affecting your oral health. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into the world of periodontal disease!

What is Periodontal or Gum Disease?

Periodontal refers to "around the tooth." Periodontitis, often known as gum disease, is a dangerous bacterial illness that attacks the gums and surrounding tissues.

If left untreated, the illness will progress and the underlying bone around the teeth will erode, losing its ability to support the teeth in place. Periodontal disease is generally not painful, thus it is possible to have it and be unaware of it.

A periodontist is a dentist who specialises in periodontal disease.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that can progress to affect the bone supporting the teeth.

1. Gums that are reddish or purplish in colour.
2. Bleeding.
3. Soreness.
4. Halitosis (bad breath).
5. Unpleasant taste.
6. Chewing causes pain.
7. Gum recession (when your gums slip away from your teeth).
8. Loose teeth.
9. A shift in how your teeth fit together.
   

Is periodontitis contagious?

Gum disease bacteria can spread from person to person. While you cannot develop gum disease from a single incident, recurrent and long-term saliva contact (such as kissing) may raise your risk of periodontal disease.

What are the side consequences associated with periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, if left untreated, can lead to severe complications that go beyond just oral health. Some of the key side effects include:

• Tooth Loss: As gum disease progresses, the infection weakens the support structure of your teeth, leading to loosening or even tooth loss.
• Chronic Infections: Gum disease triggers a continuous cycle of infection, causing inflammation, bleeding gums, and discomfort.
• Bone Damage: Advanced periodontal disease can result in the breakdown of jawbone tissue, affecting the stability of your teeth and facial structure.
• Impact on General Health: Studies have shown a strong link between gum disease and other serious health conditions:

            1. Heart Disease: The inflammation caused by gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease by contributing to arterial plaque buildup.

       2. Stroke: Bacterial infections from gum disease can contribute to the narrowing of arteries, raising the likelihood of stroke.

            3. Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, worsening diabetes symptoms and increasing the risk of complications.

• Compromised Immune System: Untreated gum disease can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections.

Different Types of Periodontal Disease

There are different types of periodontal disease, and they are classified according to their severity. 

The four main types of periodontal disease are gingivitis, periodontitis, aggressive periodontitis, and chronic periodontitis.

1. Gingivitis: 

• This is the least severe kind of periodontal disease. The gums will most certainly become red, swollen, and sensitive. 
• During daily cleanings and flossing, they may bleed easily. Treatment by a dentist, as well as adequate, persistent care at home, can assist in resolving these issues.

2. Mild Periodontitis: 

• Gingivitis, if left untreated, progresses to moderate periodontitis. Periodontal pockets can be seen at this stage of gum disease. 
• This occurs when the gums peel away from the teeth, deepening the space between the teeth and gums. 
•  It also results in early bone loss around the teeth. Prompt dental care is required to prevent further bone erosion and gum damage.

3. Periodontitis in the Moderate Range. 

• Bacteria begin to destroy the ligaments, soft tissues, and bones that hold your teeth in place if left untreated.
• You may experience poor breath as well as pus (infection) around your gum line. At this period, some people experience agony.

4. Advanced Periodontitis. 

• Bone loss worsens as periodontal disease progresses. This might lead to your teeth becoming loose and eventually falling out.

Gum disease is reversible if treated early enough. However, if you've already lost bone around your teeth due to infection, the illness is irreversible. However, with correct therapy and continuous, rigorous oral hygiene, you can control it.

Treatment Options for Each Type of Disease

Periodontal treatments come in a variety of forms. The one that is best for you is determined by the severity of your ailment as well as a variety of other considerations, including:

• Your well-being.
• Whether or not you smoke.
• What therapies have you undergone in the past?

1. Improved Oral Hygiene and Dental Cleaning: 

People with early periodontal disease (gingivitis) may be able to reverse the condition with regular dental cleaning and better oral hygiene. 

Because there is no bone loss, this conservative method eliminates hazardous oral bacteria before the condition progresses.

Brushing two to three times a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for regular exams and cleanings are all part of good oral hygiene.

2. Root Planing and Scaling: 

Scaling and root planing are procedures that are similar to basic dental cleaning. However, it cleans beneath your gums, removing plaque and bacteria that your toothbrush and floss cannot. 

This treatment is recommended by periodontists for persons who have minor gum disease. 

A dental hygienist cleans (scales) the plaque from your teeth and then smoothes (planes) the root surfaces to prevent germs from reattaching. Using local anaesthesia, the surgery is normally completed in at least two sessions.

3. Surgery for Pocket Reduction: 

Pocket reduction surgery (also known as osseous surgery) may be required for people with mild to advanced gum disease. 

The idea is to eliminate plaque and tartar from deep beneath the gums that your hygienist cannot reach. 

A periodontist makes an incision (cut) in your gums and forms a flap during this treatment. This permits them to temporarily separate your gums from the roots of your teeth.

4. Laser-Assisted New Attachment Process (LANAP): 

Pocket reduction with LANAP is also offered by some periodontists. Using a portable laser, this treatment treats periodontitis. The laser only targets sick gum tissue, leaving good tissue alone.

LANAP is a less intrusive approach to pocket reduction surgery. However, the findings are mixed.

5. Grafting of Bone: 

A dental bone graft may be used by your periodontist to replace bone that has been lost due to gum disease. 

Once the infection has been removed, bone grafting material will be placed in the regions where the bone has deteriorated. 

This material serves as scaffolding or a spacer, allowing your body to grow its own bone over time.

Prevention and Early Detection Strategies

Preventing periodontal disease, or catching it in its early stages, is key to maintaining long-term oral health. Here are some essential strategies:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day to remove plaque buildup. Using mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria and keep your gums healthy.

• Regular Dental Visits: Schedule routine cleanings and checkups with your dentist to monitor your gum health and catch any early signs of periodontal disease before it progresses.

• Early Symptom Awareness: Pay attention to symptoms like bleeding gums, gum recession, or persistent bad breath. If you notice any of these signs, see your dentist promptly for a diagnosis and treatment.

• Timely Intervention: The earlier periodontal disease is detected, the easier it is to manage. Early treatment can significantly reduce the risk of serious complications such as tooth loss or gum infections.

Conclusion

Periodontal disease is not a life-threatening condition. However, it can cause additional health problems that require treatment, especially if the infection spreads to other parts of your body.

Gum disease cannot be cured. However, with correct therapy, it is controllable. Early identification and management of gum disease can help you better maintain your oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and other structures that support the teeth, such as the bone and ligaments. 

It is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which leads to inflammation and infection of the gums.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is another term for periodontal disease, which is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and other structures that support the teeth.

How long can you keep your teeth with periodontal disease?

The outcome of periodontal disease varies depending on the severity of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment. 

In some cases, with prompt and appropriate treatment, teeth can be saved and maintained for a lifetime. However, if left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss.

Is periodontal disease contagious?

No, periodontal disease is not contagious in the same way that a cold or the flu is. However, the bacteria that cause periodontal disease can be spread through saliva, so it is important to practice good oral hygiene and avoid sharing utensils or other items that may come into contact with saliva.

Can I get braces for periodontal disease?

In many cases, yes, it is possible to get braces with periodontal disease. However, it is important to first treat periodontal disease to ensure that the teeth and gums are healthy enough for orthodontic treatment.

Can periodontal disease be hereditary?

There is some evidence to suggest that genetics may play a role in the development of periodontal disease. 

However, environmental factors such as smoking, poor oral hygiene, and certain medical conditions can also increase the risk of developing the disease.

Can periodontal disease be transmitted by kissing?

The bacteria that cause periodontal disease can be spread through saliva, so it is possible to transmit the disease through kissing. 

However, the risk of transmission can be reduced by practising good oral hygiene and avoiding sharing utensils or other items that may come into contact with saliva.

Can you cure periodontal disease?

While periodontal disease cannot be cured, it can be managed and the progression of the disease can be slowed or stopped with proper treatment and ongoing maintenance.

Can you kiss someone with periodontal disease?

Yes, you can kiss someone with periodontal disease. However, the bacteria that cause the disease can be spread through saliva, so it is important to practice good oral hygiene and avoid sharing utensils or other items that may come into contact with saliva.

How do you treat periodontal disease?

Treatment for periodontal disease typically involves a combination of professional dental care and at-home oral hygiene. 

This may include deep cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing, medications to control infection and inflammation, and ongoing maintenance such as regular dental checkups and cleanings.

How much does periodontal disease treatment cost?

The cost of periodontal disease treatment can vary depending on the severity of the disease and the specific treatments required. 

In general, the cost can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars and may be covered in part by dental insurance.

How to fix periodontal disease?

Fixing periodontal disease typically involves a combination of professional dental care and at-home oral hygiene. 

This may include deep cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing, medications to control infection and inflammation, and ongoing maintenance such as regular dental checkups and cleanings.

Is there a cure for periodontal disease?

There is no cure for periodontal disease, but it can be managed and the progression of the disease can be slowed or stopped with proper treatment and ongoing maintenance.

How common is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is fairly common, with an estimated 47% of adults in the United States having some form of the disease.

How do you get periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which leads to inflammation and infection of the gums. 

Poor oral hygiene, smoking, certain medical conditions, and genetic factors can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.

How long to cure periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease cannot be completely cured, but it can be managed and the progression of the disease can be slowed or stopped with proper treatment and ongoing maintenance. 

The length of time required to manage the disease can vary depending on the severity of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment.

How do you get rid of bad breath from periodontal disease?

​Bad breath from periodontal disease can be improved with proper oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly, using an antibacterial mouthwash, and cleaning the tongue. 

Treatment for the underlying periodontal disease can also help to improve bad breath.