Neither is periodontal disease. Different name, same severity.
The terms gum disease and periodontal disease are used interchangeably. Both are names for a range of oral health problems ranging from gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, to the more serious periodontitis where gums pull away from the teeth causing potential infections.
Don’t ignore the signs
It is incredibly common for people to have early signs of gum disease and not realize it. The symptoms listed below are often ignored but should be taken seriously.
1) Persistent bad breath
If you notice that your breath smells bad even shortly after brushing your teeth this could be a telltale sign of gum disease. A constant unpleasant taste in your mouth can also be a sign that you need to visit the dentist.
2) Swollen or red gums
Healthy gums that are free from disease look firm and pink in color while gums that are experiencing gum disease can swell and turn red or purple in color.
3) Gums that bleed easily
Are you gums bleeding from daily brushing and flossing? Healthy gums don’t typically bleed from this; if your teeth do bleed during your normal oral hygiene routine, you may have gum disease.
4) Sensitivity or pain while chewing
While pain typically doesn’t develop until gum disease has increased in severity, any pain in your gums shouldn’t be ignored; for many people, tenderness or discomfort in the gums or teeth is the first symptom of gum disease that they notice.
These are all early signs of gum disease and should not be ignored as it can and will affect more than just your mouth.
Can gum diseases affect the rest of the body?
Absolutely. Even though gum disease is mostly devastating to the mouth due to tooth loss and a list of oral problems, gum disease can lead to other issues impacting the rest of the body.
Think about it. The mouth is such an integral part of your body, specifically your immune system. Whatever is put into your mouth or already in your mouth is passed onto all other parts of your body. Whether it be your chicken caesar you had for lunch or the bacteria already building up in your mouth from gum disease; the mouth can create immunity problems and inflammation in a variety of other body parts.
Gum disease has been proven to increase the risk of various cancers including but not limited to breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, and esophageal cancer. Gum disease can also lead to other serious problems including heart disease, stroke and pregnancy complications.
Concerned and questioning whether or not you have gum disease?
If you think you might have gum disease, call Dentistry for Madison to schedule a complimentary consultation. We can review your case, concerns and discuss your treatment options.
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