When we brush our teeth each day, we’re typically focused on the health of our teeth. Or we’re simply doing what we need to do because it’s part of our morning routine. But focusing on the health of our gums is just as important as caring for those pearly whites. Why? Because when we don’t, it can lead to much more serious oral health issues down the road. 

What is gum disease? 

Gum disease, often referred to as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It often starts as gingivitis, a mild inflammation that causes your gums to become red and swollen, and they may bleed when you brush. If left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis, a much more serious condition, which can damage the soft tissue and even lead to tooth loss.

A major culprit behind gum disease is plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. If not removed through proper oral hygiene, it hardens into tartar, making it even more difficult to clean your teeth and gums. With time, this leads to inflammation and infection. 

Staying on top of your oral care routine and visiting your dentist regularly can help keep gum disease in check before it escalates into a bigger problem. And what are those bigger problems? Read on for what you need to know.

Risks of Untreated Gum Disease

Have you ever brushed your teeth and discovered that your gums have bled? Well, not only is this not a fun discovery, but it is also a telltale sign of gum disease. And when this happens, you want to address the problem. Yet, many patients don’t understand the risks that come with gum disease. They may notice that their gums are sore or that they bleed when brushing or flossing, but assume it will just go away on its own. Yes, that is sometimes the case. But, more often than not, these signs warrant some attention from your Anchorage family dentists. 

Here’s why. 

• Potential for tooth loss: As gum disease progresses, it can lead to the deterioration of the bone and tissues that hold your teeth in place. This weakening can result in teeth becoming loose or even falling out, affecting your smile and ability to chew properly.
• Connection to other health issues: Research has shown a link between gum disease and serious health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. The inflammation from gum disease can contribute to these conditions or make them harder to manage.
• Increased risk of severe infections: Untreated gum disease creates an open door for bacteria to enter the bloodstream, increasing the likelihood of infections in other areas of the body. Sometimes, this can lead to more serious health complications, requiring urgent medical care.

Prevention and Early Treatment of Gum Disease 

Taking precautionary steps to prevent gum disease is easier than you might think. And it all starts with awareness. For example, when you know the gum disease symptoms to look for, you’ll know you need to take additional action to get your gums back to a healthy state.

Here is a quick list of gum disease symptoms to look for.

• Swollen or puffy gums
• Gums that appear bright red, dark red, or purple
• Tender gums when touched
• Gums that bleed easily
• Pink toothbrush bristles after brushing
• Spitting out blood during brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Pus between teeth and gums
• Loose teeth
• Pain when chewing
• New gaps between teeth, forming black triangles
• Receding gums, making teeth look longer
• Changes in how your teeth fit together when biting

Now that you know the symptoms to lookout for, let’s talk about how to prevent gum disease from occurring in the first place. And, like we said earlier, it’s easier than you might think.

• Regular dental checkups and cleanings
• Brushing your teeth twice a day
• Flossing daily to remove plaque
• Using mouthwash to reduce bacteria
• Professional treatments for early signs of gum disease
• Staying hydrated to keep your mouth healthy
• Experimenting with healthy recipes rich in vitamins and nutrients
• Avoiding tobacco products
• Limiting sugary snacks and drinks
• Replacing your toothbrush regularly
• Paying attention to changes in your gums or teeth

Gum Disease Prevention Starts with Excellent Alaska Dental Care

We said it before, and we’ll say it again. Regular dental visits to your dentist near Anchorage, Alaska, can go a long way in helping to protect your teeth and gums from more serious oral health concerns. At each visit, we can assess the health of your gums to detect those early signs of gum disease. And if we see anything of concern, we can work with you on a treatment plan to help reverse the signs.

If you are overdue for a dental cleaning or looking for a new dental home, it’s time to request an appointment with Valley Dental Clinic. We look forward to working with you and partnering with you on a plan to keep those teeth and gums happy and healthy. Contact us today.