While most people just think of teeth when they think of “Oral Health”, without healthy gums your teeth have no foundation to stand on! Gum health can directly affect the health of your bone tissue, so it’s incredibly important to maintain consistent at-home oral care and dental visits. Periodontal disease is commonly painless and may be unseen for years until it has advanced to the point it can begin leaving permanent damage.
Learn More About Periodontal Gum Disease
What is Periodontal Gum Disease?
Gum disease manifests as swelling, soreness or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth which is initially caused by bacterial buildup within the mouth. The bacteria creates plaque on teeth which lead to an infection on the gum line, and when it reaches the advanced stages the plaque hardens into tartar which is impossible to remove by brushing and must be treated by a dentist.
The Progression of Gum Disease
Periodontal Disease begins with Gingivitis, which means “Inflammation of the gums” which occurs when the gums around the teeth become red and swollen, often resulting in bleeding while flossing or brushing, And when left untreated Gingivitis worsens and eventually causes inflammation in the bone under your gums which results in bone loss and support around your teeth. If caught in the earlier stage of periodontal disease the inflammation can be treated to stop further bone loss, however without treatment teeth can become mobile and fall-out, leading to an abscess or the need to extract.