Periodontitis

It all starts with plaque above the gumline. Plaque is sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If plaque is not cleaned daily with proper brushing and flossing, bacteria will irritate your gums and cause gingivitis.In time,plaque can move below gum line and it can destroy gym tissue and supporting bone.This is the more advanced stage of gum disease called periodontitis.Gingivitis can often be successfully treated by a proper cleaning and regular daily brushing and flossing to remove plaque.In the early stages of periodontitis,your dental professional can treat the disease by scaling and root planing below the gum line. In moderate stages of gum disease, periodontitis can be treated by scaling and rooth  planning, antibiotic,and laser treatment.More advanced stages of periodontitis may require surgery to help save the teeth.

Only your dentist can tell you if you have gum disease therefore regular check ups are very important.  During your regular check up appointments the doctor will take measurements of your gum tissue and necessary X-Rays to diagnose the condition of your gum tissue.  Unfortunately, gum disease is very common in our population, and it can manifest itself as yearly as in teenage years. Patients who have compromised immunes system and diabetes are prone to gum disease, therefore it is critical to identify those patients and treat them with proper care and correct treatment intervals.

Gum tissue health is extremely important because it plays an integral role in our overall health.  It has been scientifically shown that oral bacteria that cause gum disease are directly linked to many health conditions such as heart disease, atherosclerosis, urinary tract infections, low birth weight, impotency and many other illnesses.

Signs of Gingivitis

·  Red swollen tender gums

·  Gums bleed when brushing and flossing

·  You notice bad breath or bad taste in your mouth

Signs of Periodontitis

·  Your gums have separated from your teeth

·  Pus appears between your teeth and gums

·  Your teeth are loose of shifting

·  You notice bad breath or bad taste in your mouth