What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?

 

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal (gum) disease:

If you suspect you have Periodontal (gum) disease there are several things you can and should do to eliminate the effects of the disease before they worsen. First, the disease is typically most common in adults and is treatable in most cases. Your symptoms may range from minor swelling and discolorations in the gums, to major tissue and bone damage with some of the worst cases causing tooth loss.

Fighting periodontal (gum) disease can be as simple as having regular cleanings, but how well you care for your teeth and gums between cleanings is the most important part of a good treatment plan.

The Cause:

Bacteria along with mucus and other particles is the main cause of gum disease. These components form plaque that reside on your teeth. The longer the plaque is allowed to form and live on your teeth the more likely it is to turn into tartar. Tartar cannot be removed with traditional home care treatments, it can only be removed with professional cleanings.

Diagnosis:

If you suspect some of the following it is highly recommended that you come in to have your health checked to be sure:

  • Gums that are bleeding or are red, puffy, swollen or sore
  • Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
  • Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

Levels of Severity:  

Generally, there are three levels of severity when it comes to periodontal disease — Gingivitis and Periodontitis and Advanced Periodontitis.

Gingivitis

With gingivitis the bacteria causes inflammation of the gums. Symptoms are most commonly red and swollen gums that often bleed very easily. In most cases gingivitis is treatable with good regular home care brushing and flossing while maintaining consistent professional care every 6 months.

Periodontitis:

If gingivitis goes untreated for a long period of time you run the risk of Periodontitis, which is inflammation around the tooth. The gums start to pull away from the teeth and form pockets around the tooth that has become infected. Our body’s natural system tries to fight the bacteria by breaking down the bone and surrounding gums that hold the teeth in place. With no or less gum support the teeth get loose and eventually may have to be removed.

Advanced Periodontitis

The final stage of gum disease where the fibers and bone holding the teeth in place are destroyed. Treatment most likely will not be able to save your teeth and they may need to be removed

A build up of plaque can lead to the gums aroung a tooth becoming red and swollen, a condition known as Gingivitis. If it remains untreated it can progress into Periodontitis which causes the gums to pull away from the teeth.