How Healthy Are Your Gums? What You Need To Know About Gum Disease
Did you know that nearly half of adults over 30 in the U.S. have some form of gum disease? Despite its prevalence, gum disease often goes unnoticed until there’s significant damage. Unlike a cavity, which often causes noticeable discomfort early on, gum disease can progress quietly, only revealing itself through symptoms like bleeding gums, bad breath, or tooth mobility.
At North Tampa Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we specialize in diagnosing and treating all stages of gum disease, helping patients restore their oral health and prevent complications like tooth loss. Understanding the signs, risks, and treatment options is the first step in protecting your smile.
How Gum Disease Develops
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It starts when bacteria in plaque accumulate along the gumline, triggering inflammation. If left untreated, it progresses through three stages—each one more damaging than the last.
Gingivitis: The Earliest (and Reversible) Stage
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and the easiest to treat. At this stage, bacteria cause redness, swelling, and irritation in the gums. You may notice:
- Bleeding gums when you brush or floss
- Mild tenderness or puffiness around the gumline
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away
The good news is that gingivitis is completely reversible with professional cleanings and proper at-home care. But if ignored, the infection can spread deeper into the gums and bone.
Periodontitis: When Damage Begins
As gum disease progresses, the gums begin pulling away from the teeth, creating deep pockets where bacteria thrive. This leads to:
- Gum recession, making teeth look longer
- Gaps between teeth due to tissue breakdown
- Bone loss around the tooth roots
At this stage, periodontal treatment is essential to stop further destruction. Without intervention, the infection weakens the structures that support your teeth, making tooth loss a real risk.
Advanced Periodontitis: Severe Bone and Tooth Loss
In its final stage, gum disease causes significant tissue and bone loss, causing:
- Teeth that are loose, unstable, or shift out of place
- Painful chewing due to lack of support
- Increased risk of tooth loss or needing an extraction
This stage often requires surgical periodontal treatment to restore gum and bone health, and in some cases, dental implants to replace lost teeth.
Why Treating Gum Disease Is So Important
Gum disease isn’t just about your teeth—it affects your overall health. Research has linked periodontal disease to serious medical conditions, including:
- Heart disease and increased risk of stroke
- Diabetes complications due to difficulty managing blood sugar
- Respiratory infections, as oral bacteria can travel to the lungs
- Pregnancy complications, including preterm birth
Early treatment of gum disease protects your oral health and overall well-being.
Advanced Treatments to Restore Gum Health
At North Tampa Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we offer advanced treatments designed to halt gum disease and restore healthy, strong gums. Depending on the severity of your condition, we may recommend:
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning to remove bacteria from beneath the gumline
- Periodontal Maintenance: Regular specialized cleanings to prevent the disease from returning
- Osseous Surgery: A surgical procedure to remove infected tissue and reshape bone
- Gum Grafting: A procedure to restore receding gums and protect tooth roots
If gum disease has already caused significant tooth loss, we also offer dental implants to replace missing teeth and restore full function.
Schedule a Periodontal Evaluation to Protect Your Smile
The earlier gum disease is detected, the easier it is to treat. If you’ve noticed symptoms like bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, don’t wait—these are signs your gums need professional care.
At North Tampa Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we specialize in preventing, treating, and reversing gum disease with advanced techniques and personalized care. Contact our office located in Tampa, FL to schedule an appointment and take control of your gum health.
