Gum Disease

Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease, and is an infection of the gums surrounding your teeth. Gum disease is one of the top reasons for tooth loss in adults, and because it is virtually pain free in the early stages, many patients do not know they have the disease. During each regular checkup, your dentist and hygienist will check for signs of periodontal disease.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque (a sticky form of bacteria that forms on the teeth). If the plaque is not removed (by flossing, brushing, and regular dental checkups), it will continue to build up and create toxins that can damage the gums. Periodontal disease forms just below the gum line, and creates small pockets that separate the gums from the teeth. Periodontal disease has two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.

 

  • Gingivitis - This is the early stage of gum disease, when the gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is reversible and can be corrected by dental cleanings, followed by regular brushing and flossing.
  • Periodontitis -If left untreated, gingivitis will advance into periodontitis, and the gums and bone that support the teeth will become seriously and irreversibly damaged. Gums infected with periodontitis can cause teeth to look longer, become loose – the end stage requiring the teeth to be removed.

 

Certain factors can increase a patient's risk of developing periodontal disease, including:

  • Smoking or using chewing tobacco
  • Diabetes
  • Certain types of medication such as steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, calcium channel blockers, and oral contraceptives
  • Ill-fitting dental restorations
  • Crooked teeth
  • Old fillings
  • Pregnancy
  • Poor oral hygiene

Call Hoban Dentistry DDS if you have symptoms of gum disease.