Gum Disease Awareness Month: Why Healthy Gums Matter in Loudoun County, VA

February is Gum Disease Awareness Month, which makes it a perfect time to check in on the health of your gums—not just your teeth. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that is most often caused by plaque and tartar buildup from inadequate daily cleaning. It can eventually lead to tooth loss and bone loss, yet the early stages are usually painless, so many people live with it for years without realizing there is a problem.

Regular checkups and cleanings give your dental team the chance to spot early warning signs and intervene before permanent damage occurs. At Middleburg Smiles in Loudoun County, VA, we help patients from Middleburg, Aldie, Ashburn, Purcellville, Philomont, Upperville, The Plains, Marshall, Leesburg, and throughout Loudoun County understand their gum health and take steps to protect it.

Symptoms of gum disease

Gum disease typically progresses in stages, starting with gingivitis and, if untreated, moving into periodontitis.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first and mildest stage of gum disease. Common signs include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
• Occasional bad breath

Many patients are surprised to learn they have gingivitis because these symptoms can be subtle or dismissed as “normal.” The good news is that gingivitis is often reversible with professional cleanings, prescription mouthrinses or toothpaste when needed, and consistent daily brushing and flossing.

Periodontitis

If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease that affects the bone and supporting structures around the teeth. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 47 percent of adults over age 30 in the United States have some form of periodontitis.  

Signs can include:

• Gums pulling away from the teeth (recession)
• Deep pockets between the teeth and gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

Left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and changes in how your teeth fit together. Gum disease often progresses slowly over time, but it can also have periods where it worsens more rapidly, especially without professional care. Treatment may involve deeper cleanings (scaling and root planing), medications, and sometimes surgical procedures, combined with a very diligent home care routine.

Risk factors and whole‑body connections

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing gum disease or make it harder to control, including:

• Inconsistent brushing and flossing
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Dry mouth from medications
• Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause)
• Family history of gum disease

While research has not proven that periodontal disease directly causes systemic conditions, studies suggest an association between gum disease and health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, some cancers, respiratory disease, and stroke. Chronic inflammation in the gums may contribute to overall inflammation in the body, which is why keeping your mouth healthy is an important part of protecting your general health as well.

How to help prevent gum disease

The most effective way to prevent gum disease is a combination of excellent daily home care and regular preventive visits. A strong routine should include:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day for a full two minutes with fluoride toothpaste
• Cleaning your tongue twice a day with a toothbrush or tongue scraper
• Flossing at least once a day to remove plaque between the teeth and under the gumline

In addition, plan to have professional dental cleanings twice a year and at least one comprehensive dental exam annually, or more often if your dentist recommends it. At your preventive visits, we carefully check your gums for early signs of disease and, if we find anything concerning, we will design a personalized treatment plan to help stop progression and avoid long‑term complications.

If you have noticed bleeding gums, bad breath, or changes in how your teeth or gums look, Gum Disease Awareness Month is a great time to schedule an evaluation. Our team at Middleburg Smiles is here to answer questions, review your gum health, and help you take practical steps toward a healthier, more comfortable smile.

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