Are you experiencing bleeding or puffy gums? Have you noticed that at the same time, you just don’t seem to be feeling as well as you normally do? That’s actually quite common. And the truth of the matter is that gum disease can affect far more than just your oral health—it can affect your overall health too.

In this article, the team here at Berrien Dental will walk you through how to get rid of gingivitis to help your mouth and body both feel better. Let’s get to it.

What is gum disease?

You likely already know what gum disease is, but let’s offer a quick refresher, just in case. Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a condition caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar along the gumline, leading to inflammation and infection. It starts with gingivitis, the mildest form, which causes symptoms like red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing. If untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis. In this more severe condition, the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that collect bacteria and can eventually lead to tooth loss.

This condition is incredibly common—more than 42% of adults over 30 experience some form of gum disease, and nearly 8% face its more advanced stages. Certain health issues can increase the likelihood of developing gum disease too. For example, almost 60% of individuals with diabetes also deal with periodontal disease due to their body’s reduced ability to fight infection.

Left untreated, gum disease doesn’t just impact your oral health—it can also have far-reaching consequences for your overall well-being. That’s why addressing it is so important, not only for keeping your mouth healthy but also for improving how you feel day to day.

Risk Factors for Gum Disease

Unfortunately, there are some risk factors that can increase your likelihood of developing gum disease. Here’s what you need to be aware of.

• Smoking or Using Tobacco Products: Tobacco irritates gum tissue and interferes with the body’s infection-fighting abilities.
• Diabetes: Unstable blood sugar can weaken your natural defenses, leaving gums more prone to inflammation.
• Hormonal Changes: Shifts during pregnancy, menopause, or other life stages can increase gum sensitivity and inflammation.
• Medications That Reduce Saliva Flow: Less saliva means more plaque buildup and a higher chance of gum infection.
• Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals are naturally more likely to develop gum problems.
• Stress: High stress levels may lower immune response, making gums vulnerable to bacteria.
• Poor Nutrition (Especially Low in Vitamin C): Inadequate nutrients slow gum healing and resilience.
• Weakened Immune System (HIV/AIDS): When the immune system is compromised, it’s harder for the body to fight off harmful bacteria.

In the next sections, we’ll discuss the benefits of treatment, how to take control of your gum health, and what steps you can take to feel better overall.

Protecting Your Teeth

So, what does gum disease treatment entail? And, how do you get rid of periodontal disease? It all starts with stopping the infection so that it can’t do any further harm, and stabilizing your gums.

Gum disease treatment typically begins with deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing, to scrape away plaque and tartar that has developed below the gumline and smooth out the root surfaces, making it harder for bacteria to reattach.

Depending on the severity, antibiotic therapy may be used to target lingering bacteria and reduce infection. In more advanced cases, surgical options, like flap surgery or grafting, might be necessary to repair damaged tissue and support the gums.

Preserving Bone Health

Gum disease doesn’t just affect your gums—it can also lead to the loss of bone that supports your teeth. When left untreated, the infection from periodontal disease spreads below the gumline, attacking the bone and connective tissues that hold teeth in place. Over time, this can cause the jawbone to deteriorate, leading to loose teeth or even tooth loss.

Treating gum disease is super important for stopping this process. Deep cleaning, antibiotics, and, in some cases, bone grafting or regenerative procedures that we mentioned earlier can repair and strengthen the jawbone.

Improving Overall Health

Gum disease therapy can have a far-reaching impact on overall wellness. In fact, research reveals that men with gum disease are 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer, 54% more likely to experience pancreatic cancer, and 30% more likely to face blood cancers.

Studies also show that bacteria linked to periodontal disease may accelerate the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, adding another reason to address oral infections promptly. Additionally, these same bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs, increasing the chance of pneumonia and other respiratory issues. By seeking treatment, you protect both your smile and your body.

Boosting Confidence and Comfort

If you have ever experienced any of the signs or symptoms of gum disease, you know it doesn’t feel good. Gum inflammation can make it hard to eat and speak. And, bright red gums don’t necessarily look good in your photos.

By treating gum disease, you restore comfort, reduce ongoing pain, and feel more confident letting your smile show. Plus, fresh breath and healthy pink gums can do wonders for your sense of well-being.

Do you have gum disease?

If you are suffering from bleeding or puffy gums and want to know how to get rid of periodontal disease, it’s time to get on the calendar with your dentist in Berrien Springs. Our approach to gum disease treatment and restorative dentistry can help you start feeling better in no time.

Ready to get started and protect your gums and overall health? Request an appointment today with Berrien Dental, your Berrien Springs dentist.