Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues and bone surrounding your teeth. It is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions in adults, and because its early stages are often painless, many people do not realize they have it until significant damage has already occurred. At Creating Beautiful Smiles in Racine, WI, we believe that education is one of the most powerful tools we have, and we want you to feel informed and empowered about your gum health.

Gum disease begins as gingivitis, a mild inflammation of the gum tissue caused by the buildup of plaque along the gumline. When gingivitis is not treated through professional cleaning and improved home care, it can progress to periodontitis. At this stage, the infection spreads below the gumline, creating pockets between the teeth and gums that fill with bacteria. Over time, the toxins produced by these bacteria destroy the bone and connective tissue that hold your teeth in place. Left untreated, periodontitis can ultimately lead to tooth loss.

Risk factors for developing periodontal disease include poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, certain medical conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, hormonal changes, some medications, and genetic predisposition. Understanding your personal risk factors is an important part of prevention, and we take the time during every exam to discuss your gum health and give you the information you need to protect it.

The health of your gums has a significant impact that extends well beyond your mouth. Research has consistently shown associations between periodontal disease and systemic conditions including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, respiratory disease, and complications during pregnancy. While researchers continue to study the nature of these relationships, it is clear that maintaining healthy gums is an important component of your overall wellbeing, not just your oral health.

For patients with diabetes in particular, the relationship between gum disease and blood sugar control is bidirectional. Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, and elevated blood sugar creates an environment in which gum disease is more likely to progress. Managing both conditions together is important for the best outcomes, and we are happy to coordinate care with your physician when appropriate.

The encouraging news is that periodontal disease is both highly preventable and very manageable when caught and treated appropriately. Regular dental exams allow us to monitor the health of your gums over time and intervene early before significant damage occurs. If it has been a while since your last checkup, we warmly invite you to come in. Taking that first step is one of the best things you can do for your smile and your overall health.