Can Gum Disease Affect More Areas of Your Mouth than Just the Gums?
Posted on 12/23/2021 by Amir Hosseini, DDS
Gum disease has affected most adults at least once in their lifetime. Gum disease is caused by bacteria settling on the surfaces of the teeth and spaces between them. When this bacteria doesn't get cleared, it damages the gum tissues on the gum line by producing acid. Once the gum line gets compromised, the bacteria finds its way in, causing more damage to the gum tissues in the process.
In the early stages of gum disease, the gums get swollen and sore. They also appear reddish during this period. You might also start to bleed when brushing or flossing your teeth. This first stage of gum disease is also called gingivitis. When left unchecked, the bacteria will spread to the deep tissues in the gums and around the tooth roots. Severe damage to these deep tissues causes the teeth to lose their support in the jaw and come loose. Loose teeth will eventually fall off or get damaged due to inadequate support.
This later stage of bacterial infection is called periodontitis. The bacteria then spread to the jawbone to cause bone deterioration, leading to joint and muscular tissues in the jaw. Once the jaw gets infected, you are at risk of spreading the bacteria to other parts of your body, including your brain and heart. This is because your bloodstreams pass through the jawbone to provide nutrition and vitamins essential to keeping it functional.
What You Should Do About Your Gum Disease?
At the first sign of gum disease, we recommend you book an appointment at our offices. Upon a dental checkup, our professionals will be able to identify areas where bacteria has breached and any vulnerable areas. Our effective treatment plan will ensure that all the bacteria are cleared from your mouth and your teeth and gums are restored to a functional condition. Contact our offices for more information on gum diseases.
Dental Blog - San Antonio • Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists We post dental blogs to pique your interest and educate our San Antonio community about topics related to dentistry, dental implants, and oral health. Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists, 1130 E Sonterra Blvd, Suite 120, San Antonio, TX 78258 ~ (210) 614-4700 ~ aestheticperiodontist.com ~ 4/20/2024 ~ Key Phrases: Dental Implants San Antonio TX ~
Gum disease has affected most adults at least once in their lifetime. Gum disease is caused by bacteria settling on the surfaces of the teeth and spaces between them. When this bacteria doesn't get cleared, it damages the gum tissues on the gum line by producing acid. Once the gum line gets compromised, the bacteria finds its way in, causing more damage to the gum tissues in the process.