{"id":198,"date":"2021-04-06T23:13:00","date_gmt":"2021-04-06T23:13:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.belchertown-dentist.com\/blog\/?p=198"},"modified":"2021-05-06T23:15:14","modified_gmt":"2021-05-06T23:15:14","slug":"disruptive-gingivitis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.belchertown-dentist.com\/blog\/disruptive-gingivitis\/","title":{"rendered":"Can I be Infected with Gum Disease from Another Person?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Over 60% of adults in America have gingivitis or a more acute form of gum disease<\/a>, which is the inflammation and infection of the soft tissue inside the mouth. What does this mean for the rest of the population? Are they at risk of being infected with the condition from other people? A local dentist answers and explains how to fortify your gum health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Understanding Gum Disease<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis. At this point, any damage that is incurred can be reversed. However, if ignored, gingivitis can soon morph into periodontal disease and, eventually, the more devastating periodontitis. Ongoing neglect can further lead to permanent damage to the connective tissue and bone that lie beneath the gum line, tooth loss and infection that spreads to other parts of the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Is Gum Disease Contagious?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Gum disease can be contagious. However, in comparison to the common cold, flu, stomach viruses, COVID and other illnesses, its contagiousness pales in comparison. Still, it\u2019s better to err on the side of safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The primary way that gum disease can be transmitted from person-to-person is through saliva. Here are specific situations to be mindful of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n