The health of your gums has a direct influence on the health of your teeth. Regular flossing and thorough brushing are an absolutely necessary part of your daily oral care routine. This helps to remove plaque that can collect below the gum line, cause infection, and lead to gum disease. Periodontal disease (also known as gum disease) is a common inflammatory condition caused by a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. This leads to the deterioration of the surrounding soft tissues that provide stability for the teeth. Gum disease is the main cause of tooth loss in American adults. If you show signs of gum disease, such as red, swollen gums and chronic bad breath, we will act fast to treat the infection and protect your smile!

More Information on Gum Disease

Gum disease hides in the mouth, often going unnoticed while it destroys gum tissue and teeth. Conservative estimates report that up to 80 percent of the population unknowingly has gum disease in some form. Recent research shows a link between patients who have gum disease and those who suffer from strokes, heart attacks, or complications with diabetes or pregnancy. Early symptoms of gum disease may be painless and mild, like swollen gums or bleeding while brushing. Dental check ups must be performed regularly to detect, treat, and reverse gum disease in early stages before major problems arise.

Cause and Effect
Many factors contribute to periodontal disease such as plaque buildup, heredity, and lifestyle choices. The most common and controllable factor is bacterial plaque, which is the sticky, colorless film produced by normal oral bacteria. Most of these bacteria are easily eliminated with regular brushing, flossing, etc. However, when left unchecked, these bacteria release toxins that break down the natural fibers bonding gums to teeth. When this occurs, pockets between the gums and teeth form, where more bacteria can flourish and destroy your teeth. Over time, this process can affect not only gums, teeth, and bone within the mouth, but also overall health.

Maintaining the Health of Your Gums
Regular dental visits are the best way to fight gum disease. You should brush twice a day, floss once a day, and use mouth rinse daily. We will recommend oral care products that will help you fight off unwanted bacteria. We can also show you the best methods for brushing and flossing. If you have one of the stages of periodontal (gum) disease, we recommend more frequent check-ups to help your gums stay healthy.