You share so much with the people you love—hugs, meals, and maybe even a water bottle on a hot day. When you’re that close, you might wonder what else you could be sharing, like the germs that affect your oral health.
You can’t catch gum disease like you would a common cold. However, the bacteria that cause gum inflammation can be passed from one person to another through saliva. This means that, while the condition itself isn’t contagious, the building blocks for it can be shared.
At Upper Gage Dental Centre, we’re here to help families in Hamilton understand their oral health.
What Exactly Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection in your gums that happens when sticky plaque builds up along your gumline. If not removed, this plaque can harden and cause irritation.
The Two Main Stages
Gum disease typically develops in two phases. Catching it early can make a significant difference to your health.
- Gingivitis: This is the early stage. You might notice that your gums look red or a little puffy. They may also bleed when you brush your teeth.
- Periodontitis: If gingivitis goes unaddressed, it can progress to a more serious condition called periodontitis, which affects the tissues and bone that hold your teeth in place.
How Gum Disease Bacteria Can Spread
The bacteria responsible for gum issues are found in saliva. This makes it possible for them to move from one person to another during certain activities. Your own oral hygiene and overall health play the most important part in whether these bacteria cause problems for you.
Common Ways Bacteria Are Shared
Sharing saliva is a normal part of life. A few common ways this happens include:
- Kissing a partner
- Using someone else’s toothbrush or eating utensils
- Drinking from the same cup or bottle
Factors That Increase Gum Disease Risk
It’s not always just about how well you brush—other factors can also affect the health of your gums and how your body responds to plaque.
Risk Factors
Understanding your personal risk factors can help you pay closer attention to your gum health.
- Family History: A predisposition for gum issues can sometimes be passed down through families.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or using tobacco can interfere with your gums’ ability to heal themselves.
- Hormonal Changes: Events like pregnancy can cause hormonal shifts that make your gums more sensitive to plaque.
- Other Health Conditions: Some medical conditions can impact your body’s ability to fight off infections.
Signs of Gum Disease to Look For
It’s helpful to know what to watch for, so you can address any issues early on. If you spot any of these common warning signs, it may be a good time to focus more on your daily oral health routine:
- Gums that appear red, swollen, or feel tender
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
- Bad breath that doesn’t seem to go away
- Gums that look like they’re pulling away from your teeth
- Teeth that feel loose
Protect Your Gums & Your Loved Ones
The encouraging news is that you have a great deal of control over your gum health. Simple, consistent habits are the first and most effective line of defense against gum disease for both you and your family.
Simple Steps for Healthy Gums
A few key practices can help keep your gums in good shape.
- Brush for a Full Two Minutes: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Take your time to clean every surface.
- Floss Every Day: Flossing helps clean the tight spaces between your teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet low in sugar and high in nutrients supports overall oral health and helps reduce plaque.
- Schedule Regular Checkups: Professional cleanings remove hardened plaque that you can’t get rid of at home.
Taking care of your gums is possible with the right care and habits. With a consistent routine and professional support, you can help maintain a healthy mouth for life. Regular visits allow your dental team to spot the early signs of trouble.
If you have concerns about your gums, our team at Upper Gage Dental Centre is here to help. A visit to your dentist in Hamilton can give you a clear picture of your oral health and a personalized plan to help you get and stay on track.
