Gum Disease

Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the surface of teeth. These bacteriam create toxins that can damage gums over time.

The most common instances of gum disease include:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a mild inflammation of the gums, in which plaque and tarter gradually build up along the gum line. With this condition, your gums will appear red and puffy, and may bleed during brushing and flossing.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis occurs when plaque spreads to the roots and results in infection, damaging the supporting bone and fibers. With this condition, gums may separate from the tooth and begin to recede. A small pocket forms below the gum line and traps plaque and food particles.

Advanced Periodontitis

In the later stages of periodontitis, infection further destroys the supporting bone and fibers, causing the gum to recede even more. The tooth may shift or loosen, and the bite may change. If treatment can’t save the tooth, a dentist may decide to remove it to prevent further damage.

If you notice any of the following signs of gum disease, see your dentist immediately:

• Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that have begun to pull away from the teeth
• Bad breath that doesn’t go away
• Pus between your teeth and gums
• Loose teeth
• A change in the way that your teeth fit together when you bite
• A change in the fit of partial dentures

There are several ways to prevent gum disease, including:

• Brushing your teeth with toothpaste at least twice a day. This removes the film of bacteria from the teeth. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush that is in good condition, or and electric toothbrush.
• Cleaning between your teeth every day. Flossing between your teeth helps to remove bacteria and food particles from between the teeth, where a toothbrush cannot reach. Early gum disease can often be reversed by daily brushing and flossing.
• Eating a balanced diet. Choose a variety of foods from the basic food groups, such as bread, cereals, and other grain products; fruits and vegetables; meat, poultry and fish; and dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt. Try to limit snacks between meals, unless you’re able to brush promptly after eating.
• Visit your dentist regularly.  It is important to have regular dental checkups and professional cleanings, which are essential to preventing periodontal diseases.

Plaque Removal

Brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings can help to remove the plaque that eventually causes gum disease.

Scaling

In this procedure, your dentist will scrape plaque and tartar from the tooth’s crown and roots. Scaling is usually performed along with root planing.

Root Planing

In Planing, your dentist smooths the rough surfaces of the tooth, allowing the gum to properly heal. This procedure may require several appointments.

Flap Surgery

First, your dentist will lift the gum from the tooth and bone so that infection can be removed. The infected bone may also be reshaped at this time. Then, following surgery, your dentist will reposition and suture the gum to hold it in place until it heals.