Peridontal disease is a gum disease. People wth peridontal disease can spread it by their salvia. That means periodontal disease is contagious. The bacteria multiply quickly due to plaque formation and may potentially cause gum pocket disease or, commonly known as periodontal disease. Gum pockets are a symptom of peridontal diseae. The reasons for periodontitis and the circumstances that make the disease transmitted should be clarified. Research reveals that it can spread widely from person to person through saliva. Therefore, the main issue is ‘Is periodontal disease contagious?’ well, the truth is both yes and no. When you come in contact with someone, you can not give somebody gum disease, but you can transmit those harmful bacteria that are responsible for periodontal disease. This article will be a coomplete guide to periodontal disease and iis contagiouness.

What Is Periodontitis

Gum diseases progress from mild, early-stage gum swelling to advanced periodontitis, damaging soft tissue and even bone, ultimately leading to tooth loss. Hence, if the inflammation of the gum is not treated, it advances to periodontal disease, which involves the connective tissue as well as the bones. Many times, gum disease is advanced by the immune system.

Is Periodontal Disease Contagious

Peridontal disease is a serious oral condition. But the important question is periodontal disease contagious? The answer is yes, periodontal disease can be contagious. Periodontal disease is contagious and can infect multiple people. It can spread through saliva. It means when you drink water out of someone’s cup, you can get this disease. Kiss can also be the cause of getting this disease. But, donot be panic. It doesnot mean you will get this disease if ypu are in contact with the affected person. However, its risk will increase if you remain in contact with the person who has this disease.

Progression in periodontal disease

Periodontal disease has three progressive stages. Let’s delve into these stages.

First Stage: Gingivitis

It is the first stage of periodontal disease. It causes red, swollen, and easily bleeding gums. In gingivitis, bacterial infections multiply and spread due to the accumulation of plaque. Plaque is a soft, colorless or pale yellow or yellowish brown build up that forms on the teeth despite the practice of proper oral hygiene. Possible symptoms that may occur in the first stage include; the gums may be sore, inflamed, and may appear red. These are the symptoms arising from immunity within the body, resulting in the fight against bacteria that tend to spread the disease. Gingivitis is easy to diagnose because it manifests on the surface of the gums; if diagnosed early, then some or even all of the effects might be prevented.

Second Stage: Periodontitis

It is a severe stage in which the gums begin to separate from teeth. The plaque starts moving into the pockets formed due to the separation of teeth from gums.  Third Stage: Advanced periodontitis

If the teeth and gum separation becomes severe, it leads to tooth loss and gingival recession. In this stage, the infection spreads under the gums. It makes the state of your gums worse.

Indicators of Periodontal Infection

You could be at risk of periodontal disease if you experience any of these symptoms:

• Purple or dark red gums

• Discomfort while eating 

• Teeth falling out or moving

• Gaps that look like a black triangle between teeth

• Gum recession

• Pus between teeth and gum

• Continuous bad breath

• Bleeding gums (bleeding when brushing)

Although gum disease is irreversible, however, treatments are available depending on its severity. 

Can periodontal Disease Spread to the other Teeth?

An additional worry for individuals affected by periodontal disease is whether or not gum disease can affect adjacent teeth. The answer is yes. Periodontal disease can extend to other areas of the soft tissue and bone responsible for holding the teeth in place (the periodontium). Once it takes hold, it can inflict similar effects and symptoms on other teeth and surrounding oral tissue.

Treatment 

If anyone of you experiences signs of periodontal or gum pocket disease, it is crucial to see a dentist immediately. After a thorough exam, they will determine the best possible treatment.  If you have an early-stage disease, you might be eligible for scaling and root planning. This method involves professional cleaning of plaque that cannot be done with a toothbrush. In the course of root debridement, the dental hygienist cleans the plaque and then polishes the roots to prevent the accumulation of new bacteria. You may require another session to achieve optimal results, and you will receive local anesthesia. Once the plaque is removed; it is crucial to maintain cleanliness on these surfaces, so professional cleaning is suggested.

Who is most at risk of periodontal disease?

Based on official records, more than 70% of adults with having average age of 65 are influenced by periodontal disease. Gender is also an influencing factor. Males get this disease more frequently than females.

Prevention 

Prevention is the most effective solution for periodontal disease. It is mandatory to follow essential oral hygiene habits that you have likely been hearing for your entire lifetime.

• Use mouthwash daily

• Maintain regular dental checkups (at least once a year)

• Brush your teeth twice a day

• Don’t smoke tobacco.

• Think about switching to an electric toothbrush

• Make flossing a habit, daily or at least every few days

• Avoid exchanging saliva with people who have inadequate oral care or known gum disease. 

• Do not:

• Exchange food and beverages

• Share oral hygiene tools

• Share utensils

• Kiss

Do not ignore these small daily practices, as they can lead to serious dental problems. Try to set annual or bi-annual dental checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can estimate the premature signs of gingivitis before they lead to serious gum disease. learn more

FAQs

What about the relationship between heart disease and gum disease?

A lot of studies have confirmed that periodontal disease may induce the risk of heart disease.

Are children prone to periodontal disease?

No. Periodontal diseases are rarely encountered in children and adolescents. However teach your children to practice basic manners of oral hygiene. 

Are periodontal disease and diabetes related?

Yes, periodontal disease is an expected issue of diabetes. Because, it can make a person more likely to have an infection.