Understanding Periodontal Disease: Causes, Symptoms, & Prevention

At Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, Dr. Serrano often tells patients that strong teeth are only as healthy as the gums supporting them. Periodontal disease—more commonly known as gum disease—can quietly damage that foundation if left untreated. The good news? With a little awareness and consistent care, it’s both preventable and manageable.

Let’s take a closer look at what causes gum disease, the warning signs to watch for, and what you can do every day to protect your smile.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Gum disease begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along the gumline. If it’s not removed with brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and triggers inflammation.

The earliest stage is gingivitis, when gums become red, swollen, or prone to bleeding. Without treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious infection that damages the bone and connective tissue holding your teeth in place.

Several factors can make you more prone to periodontal disease, including:

• Poor or inconsistent oral hygiene habits
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Diabetes or other systemic conditions
• Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause)
• Certain medications that cause dry mouth
• A family history of gum disease

Recognizing the Symptoms Early

One of the reasons gum disease is so common is that it doesn’t always cause pain right away. Still, the body gives subtle clues that something isn’t quite right. Be on the lookout for:

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Swollen, tender, or receding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Changes in how your teeth fit together
• Teeth that feel slightly loose

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit. Early intervention can stop the progression and help your gums heal before more damage occurs.

Prevention Starts With Small, Consistent Habits

Keeping your gums healthy doesn’t require anything complicated—it’s about consistency. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing daily are the best ways to remove the bacteria that lead to inflammation. If flossing feels tricky, try a water flosser or interdental brushes for easier cleaning between teeth.

Professional cleanings are equally important. Even the most diligent brusher can’t remove every bit of plaque and tartar at home. During your visit to Alma Dental Care, our hygienists carefully clean along and beneath the gumline while checking for any early signs of gum infection.

A Note on Lifestyle and Whole-Body Health

Your gums don’t exist in isolation—they reflect what’s happening in the rest of your body. Eating a balanced diet, managing stress, and staying hydrated all help support gum health. Quitting smoking (or never starting) is one of the most powerful steps you can take, since tobacco use is closely linked to gum disease progression.

And remember, conditions like diabetes can make gum health more difficult to maintain, so regular checkups and open communication with your dentist are especially important.

Caring for Your Gums at Alma Dental Care

Healthy gums do more than keep your teeth in place—they’re essential for your overall well-being. Whether you’re noticing bleeding when brushing or it’s simply time for your next cleaning, Dr. Serrano and the Alma Dental Care team are here to help you protect and restore your gum health.

Schedule your appointment at our Petaluma office today, and take the next step toward a confident, healthy smile that lasts.

Categorised in: Gum Health