If your saliva occasionally has a pinkish tint following brushing or flossing, it could indicate the presence of early-stage gum disease. However, this condition can also manifest other unexpected symptoms or even show no symptoms at all.
According to Dr. Rodrigo Neiva, who holds the position of chairman of periodontics at Penn Dental Medicine, gum disease is a notably silent ailment.
If not treated, gum disease can progress and become harder to treat. Dr. Neiva warns that patients may eventually face tooth loss as a consequence. Furthermore, certain studies have established a correlation between periodontal disease and other unfavorable health conditions, including dementia, diabetes, and heart disease.
Gaining insight into the underlying causes
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is marked by inflammation of the gums, scientifically referred to as gingiva.
Dr. Deborah Foyle, the interim department head of periodontics at the Texas A&M University School of Dentistry, explains that gingivitis is caused by bacteria present on teeth, known as plaque, which release substances that cause irritation to the gums.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial in preventing gum disease as it helps eliminate plaque from the teeth before bacteria can cause damage to the gums. Inadequate brushing and flossing are common reasons why individuals develop gingivitis. Dr. Neiva explains that the condition often affects specific areas of the gums, particularly the gums surrounding the back teeth, which are often neglected during brushing.
Dr. Y. Natalie Jeong, professor and chair of the department of periodontology at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, explains that dentists can detect gingivitis by employing a specialized tool that measures the gap between the gums and teeth. The presence of larger spaces indicates the presence of the condition.
Using a specialized tool, dentists can diagnose gingivitis by measuring the gap between the gums and teeth. If the spaces are larger, it indicates the presence of the condition. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into advanced gum disease (periodontal disease), where the bacteria damage the tissues beneath the gums, leading to bone loss and loose teeth. Factors such as smoking, diabetes, teeth grinding, certain medications, and genetic predisposition can increase the risk of developing gum disease. Interestingly, individuals who rarely experience cavities may still be susceptible to gum disease, as the bacteria causing gum disease outcompete the bacteria responsible for cavities.
Dr. Neiva points out that it is highly common to come across patients who have extremely advanced periodontal disease despite not having a single cavity.
Recognizing the warning signs and taking appropriate action
Gingivitis often goes unnoticed as it typically does not cause pain. However, individuals with gingivitis may observe bleeding gums during brushing or flossing, along with a reddish appearance of the gums adjacent to their teeth. It is important to note that smokers with gingivitis may not experience these symptoms, leading to a misconception that everything is fine. While regular brushing and flossing aid in preventing gum disease, they may not fully resolve the issue once gingivitis has developed. The accumulation of bacteria below the gum line necessitates professional cleaning and, in some cases, antibiotics to effectively treat and cure gingivitis.
As gingivitis progresses into advanced periodontal disease, individuals may observe gum recession, resulting in a longer appearance of their teeth, according to Dr. Jeong. They may also experience heightened sensitivity in the gum area. Changes in their bite alignment due to tooth shifting and chronic bad breath are possible. Ultimately, the condition may lead to loose teeth and tooth loss.
While advanced periodontal disease may not be curable, dentists and periodontists can suggest treatments that help slow down or prevent additional gum and bone loss. These may involve deep cleaning of the tooth roots and recommendations for gum surgery to address the condition.
Maintaining healthy gums can be summarized in simple steps: Brush your teeth twice daily, floss once a day, and schedule regular dental cleanings every six months or as advised by your dentist, as recommended by Dr. Neiva.
Dr. Neiva emphasizes that the earlier gum disease is detected, the more treatment options and interventions can be employed.
