Oral hygiene is often overlooked and not as prioritized as it should be. Of all the oral issues that can occur if your dental hygiene is not cared for properly, gum disease can be one of the most serious. There are all sorts of oral infections, but gum disease is more common than people realize, leaving them unaware until it's too late.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect the tissues and bones supporting the teeth.

NIH Medline Plus reported:

1. Almost half, 47.2%, of all adults aged 30 years and older have some form of gum disease.

2. Gum disease increases with age. 70.1% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease.

3. Periodontal disease is more common in men (56.4%) than women (38.4%).

4. Smoking can put you at risk for gum problems. In fact, 64.2% of current smokers have gum disease. 

Don't let these statistics scare you, rather, let them drive your recommitment to better health and dental education.

So, what if you’re in the percentage that already has gum disease? Can gum disease be cured? We have compiled information that can help you prevent and recover from this condition, putting you back on the road to a healthy, happy smile.

What are the Signs of Gum Disease and What Causes It?

Knowing what to look for before symptoms go too far can help you prevent gum disease. The most common sign is bleeding during brushing or flossing.

Other symptoms can include the following:

• Redness and swelling in the gums

• Receding gums

• Bad breath

• Loosening or shifting of teeth

Poor oral hygiene can contribute to gum disease, as well as smoking, genetics, hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause), certain medications, and diseases such as diabetes.

Can Gum Disease Be Cured?

So, can gum disease be cured? Yes, gum disease can be treated, managed, and cured. The earlier that gum disease is addressed, the better the chances for recovery.

Steps for recovering include:

1. Regular dental visits

2. Proper oral hygiene at home - including daily brushing and flossing

3. A balanced diet with a focus on nutrition

4. Quitting smoking

5. Having any underlying issues, such as diabetes, treated

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to restore gum tissue or bone damage. This happens when you've been carrying this disease for a long time and can result in tooth loss if not treated appropriately.

How Does Gum Disease Affect Your Overall Health?

Gum disease can have a significant impact that extends beyond oral health. It can lead to other health issues such as stroke, heart disease, respiratory problems, and even complications with pregnancy. This is why it's important to take steps not just for recovery, but prevention.

For this reason, it is important to address gum disease early on and work towards prevention and recovery.

Call your dentist today to set up an appointment.