Believe it or not, Periodontal disease is very common. This disease has a wide range starting from simple gum inflammation down to the loss of tissue and bone that help to support our teeth.
Keeping good oral health is very important when keeping periodontal disease under control. Plaque is a huge factor in periodontal disease. Our mouth’s harbor bacteria that form on our teeth, also known as plaque. That plaque builds up and turns into a hardened substance known as tartar. Your hygienist and dental provider specifically target the tartar buildup on your teeth during cleanings.
If oral hygiene is not kept up with that hardened tartar can lead to gingivitis.
Gingivitis is the inflammation of your gums. Gingivitis is identified by redness, swelling and bleeding of the gums. Daily brushing and flossing and regular 6 month( sometimes 3-4 month ) hygiene visits can usually reverse these symptoms.
If untreated, gingivitis can progress to Periodontitis which is the inflammation of the gums around the tooth. When this occurs the gum begins to pull away from the tooth leaving open pockets for bacteria to invade and cause infection. The longer this goes untreated the more bacterial toxins begin to break down the tissue and bone the support our teeth. This is what causes tooth loss.
If you are noticing changes in your oral health or have any concerns you should contact your dental provider.
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