Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is a common oral health problem that affects people across the globe. Because it’s caused by bacteria, one of the most common questions people ask about gum disease is, “Is it contagious?”
This article will clarify whether or not gum disease is contagious and provide tips for prevention.
We’ll cover what gum disease actually is, the role bacteria plays, how it can be “transmitted,” and how to protect yourself and others.
Understanding gum disease
To understand whether gum disease is contagious, it helps to know exactly what it is.
What is gum disease?
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection that affects your gums and the bones around your teeth. It’s a chronic inflammatory condition. If you don’t treat it, it can cause permanent damage and eventually lead to tooth loss.
Gum disease exists on a spectrum. Gingivitis is the mild, reversible stage. Periodontitis is the more advanced and irreversible form of gum disease.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is usually caused by plaque buildup. Plaque is that sticky film of bacteria that’s always forming on your teeth.
However, some risk factors make you more likely to develop gum disease. These include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Hormonal changes
- Certain medications
- Genetics
Is gum disease contagious? The role of bacteria
When we talk about gum disease and whether it’s contagious, it’s important to understand the role of bacteria. Periodontal disease itself isn’t really “contagious.” What is transmissible are the bacteria that cause it, which live in your saliva.
How is gum disease “transmitted?”
The bacteria that cause gum disease can spread through contact with saliva, so activities like these can transmit the bacteria from one person to another:
- Kissing
- Sharing utensils, straws, or toothbrushes
- Sharing food and drinks
It’s important to know that even though the bacteria can be spread from person to person, that doesn’t mean that everyone exposed to the bacteria will get gum disease. Whether you get the disease depends on your individual susceptibility and how well you care for your teeth and gums.
Susceptibility vs. causation
Even if you’re exposed to the bacteria, you may not get gum disease if you practice good oral hygiene. And a strong immune system can help fight off bacterial infections in your mouth.
What are the signs of gum disease?
It’s important to spot gum disease early, because gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is often reversible. Look for these symptoms:
- Bad breath
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums after brushing or flossing
- Pain when chewing
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
- Pus between your teeth and gums
What are the treatments for gum disease?
If you have gum disease, your dentist will most likely recommend these non-surgical treatments:
- Professional dental cleanings. These cleanings remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
- Scaling and root planing. Also called “deep cleaning,” this procedure scrapes away bacteria from your teeth and tooth roots.
- Antibiotics. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate a bacterial infection.
In more advanced cases, you may need surgery, such as flap surgery, bone grafting, or soft tissue grafting. Follow your dentist’s recommendations to prevent the disease from spreading.
Prevention is Key: Protecting Yourself and Others
Given that gum disease can be contagious, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and others.
Maintaining Excellent Oral Hygiene
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. You might even consider an electric toothbrush.
- Floss daily to get rid of plaque and food particles stuck between your teeth.
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria.
Lifestyle Choices
- Don’t use tobacco products, either smoking or chewing.
- Manage any underlying health conditions like diabetes.
- Eat a balanced diet.
Regular Dental Checkups
- Schedule regular checkups and cleanings so your dentist can detect and treat gum disease early.
- Talk to your dentist about any concerns or symptoms you’re experiencing.
Minimizing Transmission Risks
- Don’t share utensils, straws, or toothbrushes.
- Be aware of your oral hygiene when you’re in close contact with others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you catch gum disease from someone else?
Yes, gum disease can be “caught” from someone else, but it’s not quite like catching a cold. The bacteria that contribute to gum disease can be transmitted through saliva. This means activities like kissing, sharing utensils, or even sharing a toothbrush can potentially transfer these bacteria.
Can someone give me gum disease?
While someone can’t directly give you gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) the way they’d give you the flu, they can introduce harmful bacteria into your mouth. If your oral hygiene isn’t great or you’re already susceptible to gum issues, these bacteria can contribute to the development of gum disease. It’s more of a contributing factor than a direct cause. Think of it like planting a seed – the seed needs fertile ground to grow.
Can gum disease be passed down?
There’s no direct genetic link that guarantees you’ll get gum disease. However, a family history of gum disease can indicate a genetic predisposition or susceptibility to the condition. You might inherit certain traits that make you more vulnerable to bacterial infections or inflammation in the gums. This, combined with poor oral hygiene, significantly increases your risk. So, while it’s not directly passed down, family history is a risk factor to be aware of.
In Summary
Gum disease itself isn’t contagious, but the bacteria that cause it can travel from person to person through saliva. So, sharing drinks or kissing someone could increase your risk.
The best way to protect yourself is to brush and floss daily, see your dentist regularly, and make smart lifestyle choices. Taking a proactive approach to your oral health can help you reduce your risk of getting gum disease and minimize the chance of passing harmful bacteria to someone else.