---
title: What is Gum Disease, Exactly? | Solstice
description: Has your dentist mentioned gingivitis or periodontitis? Both of these refer to gum disease. Here's what you need to know to keep your mouth healthy!
---

[Solstice Oral & Vision Health Blog ](https://blog.solsticebenefits.com/solstice-member-blog)

# [What is Gum Disease, Exactly? | Solstice](https://blog.solsticebenefits.com/solstice-member-blog/what-is-gum-disease-exactly)

 Written by [Tim Fitzgerald](https://blog.solsticebenefits.com/solstice-member-blog/author/tim-fitzgerald) | Feb 12, 2021 @ 05:00 PM

So your dentist says you have **gingivitis**. That means there’s [early inflammation of your gums](https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/gingivitis-periodontal-disease#1) caused by plaque—the sticky biofilm of bacteria that builds up on teeth every day. The win: **gingivitis is reversible** with consistent care and professional cleanings. Want an easy primer on gum disease? Keep reading for a simple breakdown!

# **Takeaways:**

- **Gingivitis = early gum disease.** It’s your first warning sign — and your best chance to stop problems early.
- **Untreated gum disease gets worse.** It can lead to cavities, gum recession, and even tooth loss.
- **Gum disease affects more than your mouth.** It’s been linked to diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
- **The good news? You can reverse early gum disease.** Daily brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings make a big difference.
- **More advanced cases need deeper care.** Treatments like deep cleanings help clear infection below the gumline.
- **Healthy habits prevent it.** Stay consistent with oral hygiene to keep your gums strong and your whole body healthier.

## **Gum Disease: What’s Really Going On Under Your Gums**

[**Gum disease** is an infection](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/periodontitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354473#:~:text=Periodontitis%20\(per%2De%2Do%2Ddon,or%20lead%20to%20tooth%20loss.) of the soft tissues in your mouth (your gums).

- **Gingivitis** = the **earliest stage**, and is indicated by inflamed gums.
- **Periodontitis** = **advanced stage**, when inflammation and bacteria start to damage the bone and connective tissues that support your teeth.

Plaque forms constantly; if not removed, it hardens into **tartar (calculus)** that you can’t brush off at home. Only a dental professional can remove it.

## **If You Ignore It… Here’s What Can Happen**

Untreated gum disease can progress from gingivitis to periodontitis, leading to:

- **Cavities and tooth decay** (plaque acids wear down your enamel)
- **Gum recession** and[**tooth loss**](https://blog.solsticebenefits.com/solstice-member-blog/do-you-know-the-different-causes-of-teeth-falling-out) in advanced disease

And the impact isn’t just in your mouth. Studies link gum disease with **diabetes** (it’s a two‑way relationship), **heart and vascular risks**, and even **cognitive decline**—associations driven by chronic inflammation and oral bacteria entering the bloodstream. While causation isn’t fully proven in all areas, the connections are important.<https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/data-research/facts-stats/fast-facts-gum-disease.html>

For a larger overview, see our blog **[Gum Disease: How It Can Harm Your Health](https://blog.solsticebenefits.com/solstice-member-blog/periodontal-disease-may-increase-other-health-risks)**. 

## **Yes — Gum Disease Can Affect the Rest of Your Body**

- **Heart & blood vessels:** The American Heart Association’s 2025 statement highlights associations between periodontal disease and increased risk of **heart attack, stroke, atrial fibrillation, and hypertension**—likely via inflammation and bacterial translocation. 
- **Diabetes:** Large cohort data show a **bidirectional** link—gum disease can make blood sugar harder to control, and diabetes can worsen gum disease. 
- **Brain health:** Older adults with gum disease show **higher dementia risk** in long‑term studies; lab and review data identify oral pathogens like *P. gingivalis* in AD‑affected brain tissue. (Association ≠ proof of causation.)

## **Catch It Early, Fix It Fast**

The great news: **gingivitis is[ treatable and reversible](https://blog.solsticebenefits.com/solstice-member-blog/is-there-a-gingivitis-cure-simple-steps-prevent-periodontal-disease)**. Here is your step-by-step action plan:

- **Brush 2x/day** with fluoride toothpaste (soft brush, gentle technique).
- **Floss once daily** (or use interdental cleaners).
- **Book routine cleanings**—your hygienist removes tartar you can’t.  
  Follow‑through at home + professional care = healthy gums in **days to weeks** for many people. 

## **What Happens During a Deep Cleaning?**

If your gingivitis is more advanced—or there’s early periodontitis—your dentist may recommend **scaling and root planing** (“[deep cleaning](https://blog.solsticebenefits.com/solstice-member-blog/the-dentist-says-you-need-a-deep-cleaning-why)”):

- **Scaling** removes plaque and tartar above and **below** the gumline.
- **Root planing** smooths root surfaces to make it harder for bacteria to re‑attach and to help gums heal.  
  This is a targeted, evidence‑based step to get infection under control. 

## **Your Daily Routine = Your Best Defense**

These small habits have a big payoff:

- Brush **morning + night**, floss **daily**.
- Replace your toothbrush **every three months** (or sooner if frayed).
- Skip tobacco and keep blood sugar in range if you have diabetes.
- Keep your cleaning schedule—prevention beats treatment every time. 

 

**Don’t wait for a toothache to tell you something’s wrong.** Gingivitis is reversible—and prevention is powerful. Schedule your checkup, brush and floss consistently, and let your Solstice plan make it easier to stay on track. **Small daily wins today = stronger gums, better health, and fewer surprises tomorrow.**

**Need coverage?** Call **877.760.2247** or email [**Sales@SolsticeBenefits.com**](mailto:Sales@SolsticeBenefits.com)  
**Already a member?** Visit [**MySmile365.com**](https://www.mysmile365.com/solstice/sign-in) or call **1.877.760.2247**

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