top of page

What is
Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is inflammation of the gums that leads to loss of the bone that supports and holds your teeth in place.  if severe, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. 

There are various stages of gum disease.  Gum disease is a chronic slow progressing disease of the tissue that supports your teeth and allow your teeth to be stable for daily chewing. Typically there is no pain associated with the inflammation of your gums. The most mild form is gingivitis, which appears as red inflammation of the gums and does not affect the bone support to the teeth. Gingivitis can progress to mild, moderate, or severe periodontal disease in which you see an increase loss of the bone supporting the teeth with each stage progression.  

 

WHAT ARE SIGNS OF GUM DISEASE?

  • Gums that bleed easily

  • Constent bad breath

  • Recession of gums

  • Areas that appear red and swollen

  • If more severe sign of gum disease is loose teeth

​

HOW DO WE CHECK FOR GUM DISEASE?

We measure the space between the gums and tooth.  There is a natural space of 1-3mm called the .  If over time plaque and tartar build up in this space and is not adequatly removed by the combination of at home hygiene care and professional cleanings then the inflammation process begins and your gum tissue pulls away from your tooth.  At this point, when we take measurements of the space we will get deeper measurements and the pockets are typically associated with moderate bleeding. With more time, as the gum tissue pulls away from your tooth and approaches the bone 

​

​

AdobeStock_448570247.jpeg
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
bottom of page