At our family dental clinic, we take gum disease seriously because we want you to enjoy a healthy mouth for life. Gum disease, which is also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the supportive tissues around the teeth. In its more serious forms, it can cause tooth loss.
Since periodontal disease is often painless, be aware of these warning signs:
- Bleeding gums, even after gentle brushing
- Red, tender or swollen gums
- Frequent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Changes in alignment when biting down
- Loose or shifting permanent teeth
- Gums that are receding or pulling away from teeth
Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky bacterial film that forms on the surface of teeth. Early stage gum disease, called gingivitis, may develop if plaque is not removed properly. If you notice that your gums are red, swollen or bleeding easily, you may have this common form of periodontal disease. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible! You can stop it in its tracks with regular dental cleanings and proper daily brushing and flossing.
Prompt treatment of gingivitis also helps you avoid periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease.
Chronic periodontitis causes the loss of the connective tissue and bones that support teeth. With this type of gum disease, teeth may feel loose. They can move and separate. The changes are often subtle, progressing slowly. However, gum disease can also be aggressive and cause rapid loss of tissue and bone.
Poor oral hygiene often leads to gum disease, but these factors may also increase your risk:
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
- A family history of the disease
- Crooked teeth that are hard to clean
- Medications, such as steroids, cancer drugs, and oral contraceptives
Remember, regular dental cleanings and examinations are essential to preventing gum disease. If you’re diagnosed with gingivitis or another periodontal disease, we’ll develop a treatment plan for your specific needs. You may require more frequent cleanings and checkups for a period of time, because we want to get rid of the gum disease and keep it from coming back.
Don’t take chances with your teeth! Brush teeth twice each day, floss daily, eat a nutritious diet, and visit us regularly. We’re here to help you keep, or rediscover, that healthy smile.
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