You probably already know that brushing twice daily is essential to removing cavity-inducing plaque from your enamel. However, if you’re not also flossing, then you’re still susceptible to gum disease, which is the number one leading cause of permanent tooth loss in adults.
Understanding more about how periodontal problems develop and spread can help you avoid them. Continue reading to learn more about this disease and how it gets around so you can safeguard your smile!
What is Gingivitis?
Many patients develop the earliest form of gum disease, gingivitis, and don’t know it because it doesn’t always present with visible symptoms. It occurs when bacteria in your mouth penetrate and infect your connective tissues. Although this condition starts small, if it’s allowed to progress, it can eventually lead to receding gums. Unfortunately, this leaves your teeth without a firm enough foundation to remain in place.
Maintaining an at-home dental hygiene routine of brushing and flossing both morning and night can prevent it from occurring, but there’s no guarantee that you won’t contract gum disease from someone else.
Is Gingivitis Contagious?
Periodontal disease is caused by specific bacteria in your mouth, and while it’s easy to think of your oral environment as an isolated space, that’s not usually true. Because the germs are also contained in saliva, they can spread from person to person like many other common illnesses.
For example, many studies suggest that children of parents with gum disease are more likely to contract it because of shared dishes, utensils, and close contact. You might also contract it if your significant other or loved ones have developed a problem because of kissing and shared spaces.
How Can I Prevent Gingivitis?
Implementing and maintaining a consistent at-home dental hygiene routine is the simplest and most effective way to prevent gum disease. Regularly removing plaque and germs that cause dental problems increases your resistance to tooth decay and gingivitis.
However, because the condition can be shared through saliva exchange, it’s best to keep your mouth to yourself if you or someone you know has gingivitis. You should avoid locking lips or sharing cups, drinks, and foods with anyone until you’re certain the issue has been resolved.
This is especially true if you have reduced immunity or poor health because your body is unable to fight off the infection. If it progresses, it can spread to your teeth or jawbone or enter your bloodstream and contribute to other health concerns like heart issues or diabetes.
If you’re unsure whether you’ve developed gingivitis, the best way to know for certain is to schedule an exam with your dentist!
Meet the Author
Dr. Barry Miller enjoys helping families build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery at The Ohio State University and has completed additional training in restorative and prosthetic dentistry. He provides a comprehensive menu or services to people of all ages at one convenient location, including basic preventative care and gum disease therapies. He combines a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. You can request an appointment on the website or call (937) 642-3434.