Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)

Overview

Plaque that isn't cleaned away hardens into tartar. Germs in it make the gums red, swollen, and likely to bleed. This is gingivitis, and it can be reversed.

If it continues, gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that collect more germs. The bone and tissue that hold teeth in place break down. This is periodontitis.

Symptoms

Gum disease is often painless, so many people don't notice it.

• Bleeding, red, or swollen gums
• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss

Less common

• Bad breath that won't go away
• Gums pulling back from teeth
• Loose teeth or a change in your bite
• Pus between teeth and gums
• Pain when chewing

When to get medical care

Causes

Plaque and tartar along and under the gumline cause gum disease. Smoking, diabetes, hormone changes, and some medicines make it more likely.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
• It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

• Smoking or vaping
• Diabetes
• Older age
• Pregnancy
• Family history

Possible complications

• Tooth loss
• Harder-to-control diabetes: Gum disease can raise blood sugar

Diagnosis

A dentist checks your gums at a regular visit.

Questions you may be asked

• Bleeding when you brush
• Smoking
• Diabetes or other health problems

The exam

They measure the gum pockets around each tooth with a small probe.

Tests

Tests:

• Dental X-rays: Show bone loss around the teeth.

Treatment

The goal is to remove germs and tartar and let the gums heal.

Self-care

• Brush twice a day along the gumline with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss or use small brushes between teeth every day
• Quit smoking
• Keep diabetes under control

Medicines

Medicines can help along with cleaning.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) removes tartar below the gums. Some people need antibiotic gels or rinses, or gum surgery.

Prevention

To prevent gum disease:

• Brush twice a day and clean between teeth daily
• Get regular dental cleanings
• Don't smoke

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your dentist.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can go back to school or work the same day or the next day.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Pregnancy: Hormones can make gums swell and bleed. Dental care is safe during pregnancy.
• People with diabetes: Have a higher chance of gum disease and may need more frequent visits.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Gingivitis can be fully reversed. Periodontitis can be controlled with treatment and daily care.

Getting ready for your visit

Ask about your gum pocket numbers.

What to bring

• Medicine list
• Whether you have diabetes

Questions to ask

• Do I have gingivitis or periodontitis?
• Do I need a deep cleaning?
• How often should I come in?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)