Gum Disease / Periodontics
What is periodontal disease?
Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is a bacterial infection often caused by build-up of plaque and tartar when proper dental hygiene is not practiced. This infection affects the gums and tissues supporting your teeth and can present itself in two major stages:
- Gingivitis
- Periodontitis
Gingivitis affects the gums and is a mild for of gum disease. This can be reversed if properly treated in a timely manner. Periodontitis is the more serious form of gum disease which can occur if gingivitis is not treated. With periodontitis bacteria can penetrate deeper pockets of tissues disrupting the bone and the support it gives your teeth.
The best way to prevent such disease is by keeping up with your dental hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly.
Signs of Possibly Gum Disease
Often times patients claim not to have any pain or discomfort when it comes to gum disease. See a dentist if you are noticing the following:
- Changes to your teeth or bite (loose teeth etc)
- Changes to your gums (redness, puffiness, swelling, bleeding)
- Bad Breath
- Sores
