Gum Disease 101: What Every Adult Should Know
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At Premier Periodontics, we know that understanding gum health is key to protecting your smile and overall wellness. Gum disease — also known as periodontal disease — is one of the most common oral health issues affecting adults, yet many people don't fully realize the risks or recognize the early signs.
Read on to learn what gum disease is, how to spot it, and how to treat gum disease before it leads to serious complications. Then, contact one of our locations in the Greater Seattle area, including Bellevue, Redmond, Everett, Mercer Island, and Olympia, WA.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is a progressive infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It begins when plaque builds up on teeth and is not properly removed through brushing and flossing. Over time, this plaque hardens into tartar and causes inflammation. The earliest stage is called gingivitis, which is reversible, while advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, can cause irreversible damage to gums and bone, and may even lead to tooth loss if untreated.
What causes gum disease?
There are several risk factors that can contribute to the development of gum disease, including:
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Genetics and family history
- Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause)
- Diabetes and other chronic illnesses
- Certain medications that reduce saliva production
When these factors are present, your risk increases — and so does the need for early evaluation and possible gum disease treatment.
What does gum disease look like?
Early signs of gum disease may present as swollen, red, or bleeding gums — especially when brushing or flossing. Knowing the signs of gum disease can help you act early. Some of the most common gum disease symptoms include:
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
- Loose teeth
- Changes in your bite
Untreated gum disease doesn't just affect your mouth — it can impact your overall health. Studies have linked advanced gum disease to conditions like heart disease, diabetes complications, respiratory issues, and even pregnancy risks. Treating gum infections early helps protect more than just your smile; it safeguards your whole body.
If you recognize any of these signs of gum disease, schedule a periodontal evaluation at one of our Bellevue, Mercer Island, Olympia, or surrounding-area Washington locations. The earlier it's diagnosed, the more effective the treatment for gum disease can be.
How is gum disease treated?
Gum disease treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may involve both nonsurgical and surgical approaches. In its earlier stages, deep cleanings known as scaling and root planing are commonly used to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooth the root surfaces to promote healing.
Advanced imaging tools like Perioscopy allow for a more precise and minimally invasive cleaning of hard-to-reach areas. For moderate to severe cases, LANAP® laser gum surgery offers a cutting-edge, gentle alternative to traditional gum recession surgery by using laser technology to target infected tissue and stimulate gum regeneration.
In more advanced stages of gum disease, surgical interventions such as bone grafting or gum grafting may be necessary to restore lost tissue and provide long-term stability. Your periodontist will recommend a personalized treatment plan based on the extent of the disease and your individual needs.
How can I prevent gum disease?
While treatment for gum disease is highly effective, prevention is still the best strategy. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and keeping up with dental cleanings can go a long way. If you have a family history or other risk factors, periodic visits to Premier Periodontics are essential for early detection and management.
Schedule your gum evaluation in Bellevue, WA
Whether you're noticing early signs of gum disease or are looking for advanced gum disease treatment, our team at Premier Periodontics is here to help. Don't wait until the condition worsens — early action is key to help keep your smile healthy for life.
Contact us at any of our Greater Seattle locations today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward healthier gums and a healthier you.