|
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is caused by the
bacteria and toxins in dental plaque, a sticky colorless film
that constantly forms on the teeth. Gum disease affects
the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.
|
|
Warning Signs |
|
Gum disease is often silent, meaning symptoms may not appear
until an advanced stage of the disease. However, signs of
periodontal disease include:
|
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Gums that pull away from the teeth
- Loose or separating teeth
- Pus between the gum and the tooth
- Persistent bad breath
- A change in the way your teeth fit together
when you bite
- A change in the fit of partial
dentures
|
|
Diagram Comparing Healthy and Diseased Gums (from the
The
American Academy of Periodontology)
|
|
|
|
Stages Of Gum Disease
|
 Gingivitis |
|
The mildest form of the diseases, gingivitis causes
the gums to become red, swell and bleed easily.
There is usually little or no discomfort at this
stage. Gingivitis is reversible with professional
treatment and good home oral care.
|
Gingivitis
|
| Mild
Periodontitis
|
|
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to
periodontitis. In the mild stage, periodontal diseases
begin to destroy the bone and tissue that support the
teeth.
|
Mild Periodontitis
|
|
|
| Moderate - Advanced
Periodontitis |
|
In the mid-stages, periodontal diseases can lead to
more bone and tissue destruction. The most advanced
form of these diseases includes extensive bone and tissue
loss. Teeth often become loose and may have to be
removed
|
Moderate - Advanced
Periodontitis
|
|
|
|
|
Treatment Of Gum Disease
|
|
Without diligent home oral care, including brushing and flossing
and regular trips to the dentist, you put yourself at risk for
gum disease. If you're diagnosed with gum (periodontal) disease,
your periodontist may recommend periodontal surgery. Click
here for procedures for treating gum disease (from the The
American Academy of Periodontology).
|
|
Determine
if you are at risk for periodontal disease (from the The
American Academy of Periodontology).
|
|
© Copyright 2003 - 2008 Dr. Charles Kaner, D.D.S.
Last Updated: 07/14/08.
Site Created by Lew Web
Designs
|
