Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection and inflammation of the gums and bone that support your teeth. It begins with gingivitis, where the gums become swollen, red, and may bleed easily. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced stage where the gums pull away from the teeth, leading to loosening or even tooth loss. According to the Dental Association, about 47% of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease, and the percentage increases with age. The condition often starts due to poor oral hygiene, allowing bacteria and plaque to build up and infect the surrounding gum tissue.

Bacteria in our mouths start to infect tissue surrounding our teeth, which causes inflammation and leads to periodontal disease. When bacteria stays on our teeth long enough, it forms a film called plaque, which eventually hardens to tartar, also called calculus. Tartar buildup can spread below the gum line, which makes our teeth harder to clean. Then, only a dental health professional can remove the tartar and stop the periodontal disease from progressing any further.

Receding gums occur when the gum tissue around your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This can create gaps where bacteria build up, leading to infection and, if untreated, possible bone or tooth loss. Gum recession develops gradually, so many people don’t notice it right away. Common signs include tooth sensitivity, teeth that look longer, or a small notch near the gum line. If you notice these changes, contact our office for an evaluation, as gum recession can worsen without proper care.

• Periodontal Diseases -,The primary cause of gum recession, periodontal diseases are bacterial gum infections that infect gum tissue and the supporting bone that secures your teeth in place.
• Dental Care - Ineffective brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash simply invites plaque to develop into calculus (tartar), a hard substance that grows on and between our teeth. Only a professional dental cleaning can eliminate it.
• Aggressive Brushing - Brushing strenuously can cause the enamel on your teeth to wear away, receding your gums.
  

Gum disease can be prevented and controlled through proper oral care and regular dental visits. Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is essential for keeping your gums healthy. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily to remove plaque between teeth, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce harmful bacteria. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco can also help protect your gum health.

For mild cases, professional dental cleanings can effectively remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing cannot reach. In more advanced stages, treatment may involve deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to remove bacteria below the gum line, along with medications to control infection. Severe cases might require corrective gum surgery to restore lost tissue and bone support.

Routine checkups every six months, or more frequently if you have risk factors like diabetes or smoking, allow early detection and treatment of gum disease before it progresses. Staying proactive with your oral care and scheduling regular dental visits are the best ways to maintain healthy gums and a confident smile.