While the early stages of gum disease are treatable and the symptoms mild, untreated gum disease can advance into a more severe stage known as “periodontal disease.” In this guide, we’ll cover the symptoms, risks, and treatments for gum disease. The key to prevention is finding a qualified Midtown Manhattan dentist like Dr. Karthilde Appolon, who has the training, education, skills, and technology to stop this oral heath concern in its tracks.
Early Gum Disease Symptoms
People with early gum disease may have any or all of the following symptoms:
- Red gums—Just a small section of your gum may exhibit redness.
- Swollen gums—Some small areas of your gums may be swollen.
- Bleeding gums—Your gums may not bleed daily, but any bleeding is a sign of a possible problem.
- Bad breath—No matter how much you brush, this oral health problem may cause chronic halitosis.
- Gum sensitivity—Your gums may be sensitive to hot and cold beverages and even hurt when touched.
- Gum pain—Relentless gum pain is a definitive indication of gum disease.
- Tooth sensitivity—If you have this disorder, your teeth may also be sensitive to hot and cold food and drink.
- Receding gums—Upon physical examination, your hygienist and Dr. Appolon will discover gum recession that requires intervention.
- Loose teeth—Yes, this condition can result in loose teeth.
- Teeth falling out—Yes, this gum disorder can result in tooth loss.
- You may see blood on your toothbrush or sink, and brushing and flossing may be extremely painful, even in the early stages.
Gingivitis vs. Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis: The Early Stage of Gum Disease
Simply think of gingivitis as less advanced gum disease. Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is mild and typically causes minor issues. The symptoms may only be present part of the time, and gingivitis is extremely treatable at Appolon Dental Group in Midtown Manhattan.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Gingivitis will likely progress to periodontitis when not treated in its early stages. Periodontitis is inflammation of the periodontium, which is the gum tissue and bone that keep your teeth in place; so, as the condition progresses, teeth become loose and may eventually fall out.
The Importance of Early Treatment
Dr. Appolon and her Midtown Manhattan dental team cannot stress enough how important it is to treat gum disease in its earliest stages, which means you must keep up with your twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings. At these visits, your gums are inspected, and problems are noted. When Dr. Appolon can treat the problem earlier rather than later, your chances of eradicating infection greatly increase.
How Untreated Gum Disease Affects Your Overall Health
You may be surprised to learn how much-advanced gum disease can affect your general health. Did you know it could lead to severe cardiovascular issues?
Let’s look at some other medical conditions that may result from untreated gum disease.
Johns Hopkins Medical Center researchers found links between this untreated disorder and cancer. Researchers indicated, “A 24 percent increase in the relative risk of developing cancer among participants with severe periodontitis, compared to those with mild to no periodontitis. The highest risk was observed in lung cancer cases, followed by colorectal cancer.” Further findings of the Johns Hopkins research team indicate the risk for various types of cancer is higher in research participants who suffered tooth loss due to periodontal disease.
Untreated gum disease has also been linked to stroke. According to studies presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference in 2018, periodontal disease has been linked to a “higher rate of strokes caused by the hardening of large arteries in the brain and also with severe artery blockages that haven’t yet caused symptoms.”
Heart attack. Cancer. Stroke. Diabetes. Dementia. These are probably the scariest medical problems for Americans over 40, and they are all tied to untreated gum infections. Early treatment can prevent these severe health issues. Let us help you now so you never experience these horrible medical events due to unhealthy gums.
Prevention and Treatment of Gum Disease
We have already emphasized the importance of prevention by seeing Dr. Appolon twice yearly for dental cleanings and oral exams. If you are diagnosed, treatment is available at Appolon Dental Group in Midtown Manhattan. Still, the treatment is the most affordable and “easiest” when the gum disease is caught early.
Some of the most common treatments for gum disease include:
- Professional cleaning
- Scaling and root planing
- Medications
- Flap surgery/pocket reduction surgery
- Soft tissue grafts
- Gum recession surgery
Each treatment is tailored to your specific needs for optimal results.
Schedule Your Appointment with Dr. Appolon to Stop Gum Disease in Its Tracks
Don’t let gum disease advance to a dangerous stage that affects your general health, results in tooth loss, and requires extensive periodontal treatment with Dr. Appolon at Appolon Dental Group.
Don’t wait; your oral health is too important. Call us at (212) 557-8668 or complete our online contact form. You may request an appointment or ask questions about any symptoms you’re experiencing.
