Gum Health

Periodontal simply means “the tissue around the teeth.” Periodontal disease affects the gums and the bone that supports your teeth. Plaque, colonies of bacteria that accumulate on your teeth and oral tissues, is the most common cause of gum disease. Gum disease leads to bone loss and then tooth loss.

Unfortunately, periodontal-related problems are often discovered after they have persisted for an extended period of time. Proper oral hygiene, daily dental care and regular dental checkups will minimize the risk of gum disease. Gum disease ranges from mild (gingivitis) to moderate (periodintitis) to the severe (periodontitis). Treatments are available for every case of gum disease.

Common problems associated with gum disease:

• “Long” teeth (receding gum lines expose the root portions of your teeth)
• Discolored or deteriorating tooth structure
• Gum depressions (holes in between the teeth in the gum tissue)
• Infected gum line (discoloration or inflammation of the gum tissue)
• Tooth loss or tooth movement

The effects of gum disease can be damaging to your overall health. However, through proper preventive care and oral hygiene, you can avoid problems associated with gum disease.

Please contact our office for a periodontal evaluation.