Reviewed by Dr. Kerri Font, DDS
Reading time: four minutes.
True or false: Kissing can spread gum disease.
True or false: You can get gum disease by sharing a toothbrush with someone that has gum disease.
The answer to both questions is: True! Gum disease might not be as contagious as the flu, but its bacteria can be sneaky.
In this blog, we talk about gum disease, a serious infection that affects the soft tissues of the mouth. We will explain how an individual gets gum disease and will answer questions like: is it contagious?
Table of Contents
- Understanding Gum Disease
- Symptoms of Gum Disease
- Is Gum Disease Contagious?
- Risk Factors for Gum Disease
- Prevention Measures
- Treatment Options
- Highlands Ranch Periodontics: Your Partner in Oral Health
Key Takeaway
Gum disease itself isn’t contagious, but the bacteria that causes it can be spread through saliva. This means that activities like kissing, sharing utensils, or using the same toothbrush can transfer bacteria and increase the risk of developing gum disease. Practice good oral hygiene and avoid the exchange of saliva to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Understanding Gum Disease
Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that affects both your oral health and overall well-being. It starts when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on your teeth. If not regularly cleaned through brushing and professional dental care, this plaque can harden into tartar, causing inflammation and eventually leading to gingivitis.
Stages of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease progresses through several stages:
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage, characterized by inflammation and redness of the gums. Symptoms may include bleeding while brushing or flossing and mild discomfort.
- Moderate periodontitis: At this stage, you may notice more severe symptoms like gum recession and pockets forming between the teeth and gums. Bone loss may begin as well.
- Advanced periodontitis: This is a critical stage where significant bone loss occurs, leading to loose teeth and potential tooth loss. Affected individuals may experience persistent bad breath and the increased mobility of teeth.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Be on the lookout for the following signs of gum disease:
- Bleeding gums, especially during brushing
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Loose teeth or tooth loss
- Pain when chewing
- Changes in bite
Is Gum Disease Contagious?
Though periodontal disease itself isn’t classified as a contagious disease, the bacteria that cause it can be transmitted from person to person.
Gum disease-causing bacteria can spread through the exchange of saliva, making it possible to pass on harmful bacteria through activities like kissing, sharing utensils or food, or using the same toothbrush.
This exchange of bacteria can increase the risk of gum disease, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems or existing oral health issues.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
Several risk factors increase your chances of developing gum disease:
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Certain health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease
- Genetic predisposition to gum disease
- Dry mouth due to medications or health conditions
- Aging
Prevention Measures
To maintain healthy gums and prevent gum disease, consider the following tips:
- Daily brushing and flossing: Brush twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque buildup and prevent the formation of tartar.
- Regular dental cleanings: Schedule professional cleanings every six months to remove tartar and keep your gums healthy.
- Healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support healthy teeth and gums.
- Quit smoking: Smoking is a major contributor to gum disease. Quit smoking to lower your risk of developing gum disease.
Treatment Options
If you’re dealing with gum disease, various treatment options are available:
- Non-surgical treatments: Deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing will remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline.
- Surgical treatments: In more advanced stages, flap surgery or tissue regeneration may be necessary to restore gum tissue and bone support.
- Ongoing care: Maintain regular dental visits and implement a diligent oral hygiene routine to prevent recurrence.
Highlands Ranch Periodontics: Your Partner in Oral Health
If you suspect you or a loved one has gum disease, don’t wait to seek treatment. At Highlands Ranch Periodontics, we offer comprehensive periodontal services to help you achieve and maintain healthy gums.
If you are searching for a ‘periodontist in Highlands Ranch’ or ‘gum disease treatment near me’ we can help! Consult with Dr. Kerri Font, DDS, or Dr. Mike Norouzinia, DDS, to explore your options. Call (303) 683-1144 to book an appointment or complete our online inquiry form.