Gum disease is an inflammatory condition that can damage the bones that support your teeth (and eventually lead to tooth loss) if left untreated. But don’t worry—it’s a common issue, and we’re here to help!

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Your Gums

• Advanced stages of gum disease can destroy the bone supporting your teeth and result in tooth loss.
• Studies have linked gum disease to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even respiratory problems!
• Severe gum disease can worsen pregnancy complications like premature birth and low birth weight.

What Worsens Gum Disease?

• Bad oral hygiene: Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing is a must to remove and prevent plaque.
• Smoking: Smoking weakens your immune system’s ability to fight off gum infection.
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, puberty, and menopause can all make you more susceptible to gum disease, thanks to your fluctuating hormone levels.
• Certain medications: Some medications can cause dry mouth, which reduces the natural cleansing action of saliva and increases the risk of gum disease.
• Medical conditions: Diabetes and other chronic health conditions can compromise your immune system and increase the risk of gum disease.

The Stages of Gum Disease

Gingivitis

This is the earliest and most reversible stage. It’s caused by plaque buildup, but luckily, with proper oral hygiene practices and professional cleaning, gingivitis can be reversed completely.

Early Periodontitis

When gingivitis is left untreated, it advances to early periodontitis. In this stage, deeper gum pockets can begin to form around the teeth, and you can start to experience persistent bad breath and tooth sensitivity.

Moderate Periodontitis

Your gum pockets will begin to deepen more during this phase, and bone loss around your teeth will begin. This will lead to loose teeth, and chewing will start to feel uncomfortable.

Advanced Periodontitis

This is the most severe stage! Here, you will experience significant bone loss and loose and shifting teeth. Pus may also begin to ooze from your gum pockets, which impacts your ability to chew and can contribute to other problems like diabetes and heart disease.

Common Gum Disease Symptoms

• Red, inflamed, or swollen gums
• Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gums (gums pulling away from the teeth)
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pus coming from between the teeth and gums
• Tenderness when chewing

Treating Your Gums

Our initial cleaning includes scaling and root planing, which act as your first line of defense against gum disease. We also provide deep cleaning to remove plaque and hardened tartar buildup, both above and below the gumline, and give your gums a fresh start.

But remember, professional care is just one piece of the puzzle. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices at home is essential to preventing gum disease.