If you are experiencing a severe dental emergency causing bleeding and /or difficulty breathing, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital’s emergency department.
According to the Canadian Dental Association, seven out of every ten Canadians will experience gum disease at some point in their lives. It is most common in those who smoke and in older adults, but gum disease does not discriminate. Children and teens who do not practice good oral hygiene, expectant mothers, and those with systemic medical conditions are at risk, and heredity plays a role, as well. Gum disease is the primary cause of tooth loss in this country. It is linked to grave health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, increased risk of stroke and heart attack, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. Fortunately, prevention is often possible, and gum disease can be managed with proper treatment. Calgary Dental Centers encourage patients to become better informed on this silent threat to oral health and whole-body wellness.
In its early stage called gingivitis, gum disease is easy to ignore because there is no pain. Gums may look puffy or blotchy and bleed when brushing. You may notice chronic bad breath or a strange taste. These symptoms are caused by bacteria attacking the soft tissue of your mouth. These organisms live in a sticky film of plaque and feast on sugars in food debris. As they eat, they excrete acids that irritate gums. Without proper brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar at the gum line, which causes further irritation. Gums begin to pull away from teeth forming pockets that allow bacteria to burrow deeper.
Without treatment, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. In this advanced state, bacterial infection reaches ligaments and bone that hold teeth in place. Teeth become loose and fall out or must be extracted.
Calgary Dental Centers recommends a multi-pronged approach to preventing gum disease:
Periodontal health therapy begins with deep cleaning. A procedure called scaling and root planing scours pockets of plaque, bacteria, and diseased tissue. Tartar is removed and tooth roots are smoothed, which encourages a better seal of gums to teeth. Topical antibiotics may be applied once pockets are sterilized, to further curb infection. It is extremely important to maintain recall appointments so that the dentist may monitor your condition and adjust treatment if necessary.
You deserve the health and appearance benefits of a disease-free mouth. Call Calgary Dental Centers at (403) 768-1339 for a no-cost periodontal consultation.
Periodontal health is more than just a matter of healthy gums. Poor gum health has been scientifically linked to several systemic health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even complications related to respiratory illnesses. The inflammation associated with periodontal disease can affect the entire body, contributing to chronic inflammation that strains your immune system. People with diabetes, in particular, may find that gum disease makes it harder to manage their blood sugar levels. Keeping your gums healthy supports a confident smile and a healthier body overall.
Yes, expecting mothers with untreated gum disease may be at an increased risk of complications such as low birth weight or premature delivery. Periodontal disease can trigger the body’s inflammatory response, which in turn may interfere with pregnancy hormones and overall gestational health. Regular dental check-ups during pregnancy and proper oral hygiene are essential. Dentists may recommend more frequent cleanings for pregnant patients as a preventive measure. Addressing periodontal issues early can lead to a safer, healthier pregnancy.
Early-stage gum disease, or gingivitis, is indeed reversible with timely professional care and improved home hygiene routines. Gingivitis is characterised by red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing. Fortunately, at this stage, the damage has not yet reached the bone that supports the teeth. A deep cleaning, daily brushing, flossing, and an antibacterial mouth rinse, can eliminate harmful bacteria and restore gum health. Delaying treatment, however, increases the risk of progression to periodontitis, which is not reversible and may require more advanced procedures.
Diet plays a surprisingly powerful role in gum health. Nutrients like vitamin C help repair connective tissue and prevent inflammation, while calcium and vitamin D contribute to bone health, which is crucial for supporting the teeth. Antioxidant-rich foods like leafy greens, berries, and nuts can reduce inflammation and support healing. Conversely, sugary snacks and acidic beverages promote plaque buildup and bacterial growth, irritating the gums. A balanced diet strengthens your immune system and enhances your body’s ability to fight infection, including those in your gums.
Smoking is a major contributor to gum disease and is known to mask symptoms like bleeding gums, delaying diagnosis. It reduces oxygen in the bloodstream, slows healing and allows bacteria to thrive. Smokers are more likely to experience tooth loss, gum recession, and complications after periodontal treatments. Quitting smoking can drastically improve treatment outcomes and slow disease progression. If you smoke, Dr. Asaria may recommend more frequent cleanings and check-ups to catch problems early.
While lifestyle plays a key role, genetics can also influence your susceptibility to gum disease. Some individuals are more prone to inflammation and may develop periodontal problems despite practicing good oral hygiene. If gum disease runs in your family, it is important to inform Dr. Asaria. Early and consistent monitoring and preventive care can help you stay ahead of potential issues even if you are genetically predisposed.
You should seek a periodontal evaluation if you notice signs like swollen or bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, a bad taste in your mouth, or receding gum lines. Teeth that feel loose or shift easily are also a warning sign. Even without obvious symptoms, a periodontal screening is part of a comprehensive dental exam. Early intervention is the best defense against long-term damage to your gums and bone structure.
