What Causes Gum Disease



What Causes Gum Disease

Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It usually starts with the buildup of bacteria-filled plaque on your teeth and gums. Over time, if plaque isn’t removed, it can harden into tartar and cause serious inflammation and infection.

Here’s a detailed look at what causes gum disease and the main factors that increase your risk.

🧫 1. Plaque Buildup — The Primary Cause

  • Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth.

  • When you eat foods high in sugar or starch, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that irritate your gums.

  • Without daily brushing and flossing, plaque builds up along the gumline, leading to gingivitis — the earliest stage of gum disease.

💡 If plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar (calculus), which can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist.

⚠️ 2. Poor Oral Hygiene

  • Not brushing twice daily or flossing once a day allows bacteria and food debris to stay on your teeth.

  • Over time, this leads to inflammation, infection, and gum recession.

Regular dental cleanings help remove tartar that you can’t reach at home.

🚬 3. Tobacco Use

  • Smoking or chewing tobacco greatly increases your risk.

  • Tobacco reduces blood flow to the gums, slowing healing and weakening your body’s ability to fight infection.

Smokers are 2–6 times more likely to develop gum disease than non-smokers.

🍭 4. Poor Diet and Nutrition

Eating fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins supports gum health.

💊 5. Certain Medications

  • Some medications (like antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs) can cause dry mouth (xerostomia).

  • Saliva normally helps wash away food particles and bacteria — without it, plaque forms more easily.

Ask your dentist about saliva substitutes or sugar-free gum to keep your mouth moist.

⚖️ 6. Hormonal Changes

Pregnant women, especially, are more likely to experience pregnancy gingivitis due to hormonal shifts.

🧬 7. Genetics

  • Some people are genetically more prone to gum disease, even with good oral care.

Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are crucial if it runs in your family.

💉 8. Health Conditions

  • Diseases like diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and other immune disorders weaken your body’s ability to fight infection.

  • People with uncontrolled diabetes have a higher risk of severe gum disease.

Managing these conditions can help reduce your gum disease risk.

🦷 9. Misaligned Teeth or Faulty Dental Work

  • Crooked teeth, crowded teeth, or poor-fitting crowns and bridges can make it harder to clean properly.

  • Plaque easily hides in tight or uneven areas, encouraging gum infection.

🧃 10. Stress and Poor Sleep

  • Chronic stress weakens your immune system, making it harder to fight gum infections.

  • Grinding your teeth (bruxism) due to stress can also damage gum tissue.

🕒 Summary: Main Causes of Gum Disease

🧫 Plaque and tartar buildup
🪥 Poor oral hygiene
🚬 Tobacco use
🍭 Unhealthy diet
💊 Certain medications
⚖️ Hormonal changes
🧬 Genetics
💉 Chronic diseases (like diabetes)
🦷 Misaligned teeth or bad dental work
😴 Stress or lack of sleep

❤️ Bottom Line

Gum disease starts with plaque, but it’s influenced by many lifestyle and health factors.
The good news? With daily brushing, flossing, healthy habits, and regular dental checkups, you can prevent gum disease entirely — and keep your smile strong for years to come. 

OTHER SOURCES

Plaque is the primary cause of gum disease. However, other factors can contribute to periodontal disease as well. These include:

* Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and monthly menstruation, make gums more sensitive, which makes it easier for gingivitis to develop.
* Illnesses may affect the condition of your gums. This includes diseases such as cancer or HIV that interfere with the immune system. Because diabetes affects the body's ability to use blood sugar, patients with this disease are at higher risk of developing infections, including periodontal disease.
* Medications can affect oral health because some lessen the flow of saliva, which has a protective effect on teeth and gums. Some drugs, such as the anticonvulsant medication Dilantin and the anti-angina drug Procardia and Adalat, can cause abnormal growth of gum tissue.
* Bad habits such as smoking make it harder for gum tissue to repair itself.
* Poor oral hygiene habits such as not brushing and flossing on a daily basis, make it easier for gingivitis to develop.
* Family history of dental disease can be a contributing factor for the development of gingivitis.

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What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?


What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) usually develops slowly, starting with mild gum inflammation and progressing to deeper infection if not treated. Knowing what to look for can help you protect your gums and teeth.

🩺 What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

🌿 1. Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums

🩸 2. Bleeding Gums

  • Gums that bleed easily during brushing, flossing, or eating hard foods are a common warning sign.

  • Occasional bleeding can happen, but frequent bleeding is not normal — it means your gums are reacting to plaque buildup.

💨 3. Persistent Bad Breath or Bad Taste

  • Ongoing bad breath (halitosis) or a metallic taste in your mouth may indicate bacterial infection below the gumline.

  • These bacteria release toxins that produce unpleasant odors.

🦷 4. Receding Gums

⚖️ 5. Loose or Shifting Teeth

⚠️ 6. Gum Pockets or Pus

😣 7. Pain or Discomfort When Chewing

  • As the gums and bone weaken, chewing can become painful or uncomfortable.

  • This may indicate damage to the supporting structures of your teeth.

🕒 Stages of Gum Disease

  1. Gingivitis (Early Stage)

    • Gums are red, swollen, and bleed easily.

    • Usually reversible with proper brushing, flossing, and professional cleaning.

  2. Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)

    • Infection spreads below the gumline.

    • Bone loss and tooth loosening can occur if untreated.

    • Requires professional dental treatment.

💡 When to See a Dentist

Contact your dentist right away if you notice:

Early diagnosis and treatment can stop gum disease before it causes permanent damage.

🌼 In Summary

Common Symptoms of Gum Disease:

🩸 Bleeding gums
🌿 Red or swollen gums
💨 Bad breath or bad taste
🦷 Receding gums or loose teeth
⚠️ Pain when chewing
⚖️ Gum pockets or pus

❤️ Remember:

Gum disease doesn’t always hurt at first — but it’s a silent threat that can lead to tooth loss and other health issues if ignored.
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, you can catch it early and keep your smile healthy for life!

Gum disease may progress painlessly, producing few obvious signs, even in the late stages of the disease. Although the symptoms of periodontal disease often are subtle, the condition is not entirely without warning signs. Certain symptoms may point to some form of the disease. The symptoms of gum disease include:

* Gums that bleed during and after tooth brushing
* Red, swollen, or tender gums
* Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
* Receding gums
* Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
* Loose or shifting teeth
* Changes in the way teeth fit together upon biting down, or in the fit of partial dentures.

Even if you don't notice any symptoms, you may still have some degree of gum disease. In some people, gum disease may affect only certain teeth, such as the molars. Only a dentist or a periodontist can recognize and determine the progression of gum disease.

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease? Video

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How Can Gum Disease Be Prevented?


How Can Gum Disease Be Prevented?

Gum disease (periodontal disease) is one of the most common — and most preventable — oral health problems. It starts when bacteria in plaque irritate your gums, leading to redness, swelling, and bleeding. If left untreated, it can cause tooth loss and affect your overall health.

Here’s how to prevent gum disease and keep your smile healthy for life.

🌿 How Can Gum Disease Be Prevented?

🪥 1. Brush Your Teeth Properly — Twice a Day

💡 Tip: Electric toothbrushes can remove plaque more effectively than manual ones.

🧵 2. Floss Daily

🧴 3. Use Mouthwash

🍎 4. Eat a Balanced, Nutrient-Rich Diet

🚭 5. Avoid Tobacco

  • Smoking and chewing tobacco are major risk factors for gum disease.

  • They restrict blood flow to the gums, slow healing, and make infections harder to control.

🚫 Quitting tobacco can dramatically improve your oral and overall health.

🦷 6. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

  • Schedule a checkup and professional cleaning every 6 months.

  • Your dentist or hygienist can remove tartar — hardened plaque that brushing alone can’t clean.

  • Regular visits allow for early detection of gum inflammation (gingivitis) before it becomes severe.

💧 7. Stay Hydrated

  • Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria.

  • It also stimulates saliva production, your mouth’s natural defense against plaque buildup.

🧠 8. Manage Health Conditions

  • Conditions like diabetes can increase gum disease risk.

  • Keeping blood sugar and overall health under control supports gum healing and resistance to infection.

😁 9. Watch for Early Warning Signs

Catch gum disease early by paying attention to:

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums

  • Bleeding when brushing or flossing

  • Persistent bad breath

  • Receding gums or loose teeth

If you notice any of these, see your dentist promptly. Early treatment can reverse gingivitis before it progresses.

💡 In Summary

You can prevent gum disease by:

🪥 Brushing twice daily
🧵 Flossing every day
🧴 Using mouthwash
🍎 Eating a healthy diet
🚭 Avoiding tobacco
🦷 Seeing your dentist twice a year
💧 Drinking plenty of water

❤️ Remember:

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile.
With good daily habits and regular dental care, gum disease is almost completely preventable — and your smile will thank you for it! 


Gum disease can be reversed in nearly all cases when proper plaque control is practiced. Proper plaque control consists of professional cleanings at least twice a year and daily brushing and flossing.

Brushing eliminates plaque from the surfaces of the teeth that can be reached; flossing removes food particles and plaque from in between the teeth and under the gum line. Other health and lifestyle changes that will decrease the risk, severity, and speed of gum disease development include:

* Stop smoking. Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for development of periodontitis. Smokers are seven times more likely to get gum disease than nonsmokers, and smoking can lower the chances of success of some treatments.
* Reduce stress. Stress may make it difficult for your body's immune system to fight off infection.
* Maintain a well-balanced diet. Proper nutrition helps your immune system fight infection. Eating foods with antioxidant properties, for example, those containing vitamin E or vitamin C (vitamin E-containing foods include vegetable oils, nuts, green  leafy vegetables; vitamin C-containing foods include citrus fruits, broccoli, potatoes) can help your body repair damaged tissue.
* Avoid clenching and grinding your teeth. These actions may put excess force on the supporting tissues of the teeth and could increase the rate at which these tissues are destroyed.

Despite following good oral hygiene practices and making other healthy lifestyle choices, the American Academy of Periodontology says that up to 30% of the Americans may be genetically susceptible to gum disease. And those who are genetically predisposed may be up to six times more likely to develop some form of gum disease.
 If anyone in your family has gum disease, it may mean that you are at greater risk as well. If you are more susceptible to gum disease, your dentist or periodontist may recommend more frequent check-ups, cleanings, and treatments to better manage the condition.

How Can Gum Disease Be Prevented?Video

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Caring for Your Baby's Teeth



Caring for Your Baby's Teeth

Teething is a normal part of your baby’s growth, but it can cause a range of symptoms as those tiny teeth push through the gums. Understanding these signs helps you comfort your baby and know when it’s just teething — or something more.

👶 What Are Symptoms of Teething in a Baby?

🦷 1. Swollen or Tender Gums

💧 2. Increased Drooling

  • Teething stimulates extra saliva production.

  • You might see your baby drooling more than usual, soaking bibs and shirts.

  • Keep a soft cloth handy and use a baby-safe moisturizer to prevent drool rash around the mouth and chin.

😣 3. Fussiness or Irritability

  • The pressure of teeth coming through tender gums can make babies cranky, clingy, or restless.

  • They may cry more often, especially at night when discomfort feels worse.

🍼 4. Changes in Eating or Sleeping Habits

  • Babies may refuse the bottle or breast, or eat less solid food because their gums hurt.

  • They might also wake up more often or have trouble sleeping.

👋 5. Biting and Chewing on Everything

  • To relieve pressure, babies instinctively bite on toys, fingers, or anything they can reach.

  • Offering a cool teething ring or chilled washcloth can help.

🌡️ 6. Slight Temperature Increase (But Not a Fever)

  • A mild rise in body temperature can happen with teething, but a true fever (above 100.4°F / 38°C) is not caused by teething.

⚠️ If your baby has a fever, diarrhea, or rash, contact your pediatrician — those are likely signs of illness, not teething.

💩 7. Mild Changes in Drool or Bowel Habits

  • Some babies may get looser stools or mild irritation from swallowing extra saliva, but it should not be severe or prolonged.

💔 8. Ear Pulling or Cheek Rubbing

🕒 When Does Teething Start?

🩺 When to Call the Doctor

Contact your pediatrician if your baby:

  • Has a high fever (over 100.4°F / 38°C)

  • Shows severe diarrhea, rash, or vomiting

  • Is refusing to eat or drink

  • Seems unusually lethargic or unwell

These are not typical teething symptoms and may indicate another issue.

❤️ In Summary

Common teething symptoms:

✅ Swollen, tender gums
💧 Lots of drool
😣 Irritability or crying
👶 Biting and chewing
🍼 Changes in sleep or appetite
💔 Rubbing cheeks or ears

Teething is temporary — but those little smiles that follow are worth it! 😄🦷

Would you like me to follow this with a “How to Soothe a Teething Baby” section (a short, parent-friendly guide with gentle relief tips)?

That’s a wonderful and important topic — caring for your baby’s teeth from the very beginning sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles! 🦷💖

Even before the first tooth appears, good oral care helps prevent cavities, gum problems, and discomfort later on. Here’s a complete, parent-friendly guide to Caring for Your Baby’s Teeth — from newborn to toddler.

👶 Caring for Your Baby’s Teeth

🍼 1. Start Before Teeth Come In

Even without visible teeth, your baby’s mouth needs gentle care.

  • After feedings, wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth or soft infant finger brush.

  • This removes milk residue and bacteria that can harm the gums or new teeth.

💡 Tip: Begin this habit early so your baby gets used to oral care routines.

🦷 2. Clean the First Teeth Gently

When the first tooth appears (usually around 6 months):

🪥 3. Brush the Right Way

  • Place the brush at a gentle angle and use small, circular motions on teeth and gums.

  • Brush morning and night — consistency is more important than force.

  • Replace toothbrushes every 3–4 months or sooner if bristles fray.

🍎 4. Avoid Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Baby bottle tooth decay happens when teeth are exposed to sugar from milk, juice, or formula for long periods.
To prevent this:

🩺 5. Schedule the First Dental Visit

  • Your baby’s first dental visit should be by their first birthday or within 6 months of the first tooth appearing.

  • The dentist will:

    • Check for early signs of decay

    • Show you proper brushing techniques

    • Discuss fluoride and teething care

Early visits help your baby get comfortable with dental care and prevent future problems.

💧 6. Use Fluoride Wisely

  • Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities.

  • If your water supply is not fluoridated, talk to your pediatrician or dentist about fluoride drops or supplements.

  • Always use just a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste for babies — too much can cause white spots on teeth.

🥦 7. Feed for Healthy Teeth

😴 8. Make Oral Care a Happy Habit

  • Turn brushing into a fun daily routine — sing a song, let your baby hold a second toothbrush, or brush together.

  • Praise your child for participating, even in small ways!

🌟 In Summary

Caring for your baby’s teeth means:

🧼 Wiping gums early
🪥 Brushing twice daily with a soft brush
🚫 Avoiding bedtime bottles
🩺 Visiting the dentist by age 1
💧 Using fluoride wisely
🥦 Encouraging healthy eating habits

❤️ Remember:

Healthy baby teeth are just as important as adult teeth — they help your child eat, speak, and smile with confidence and guide permanent teeth into the right position later on.

Good oral care today means a lifetime of strong, happy smiles tomorrow!

Caring for Your Baby's Teeth Video:



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What Are Symptoms of Teething in a Baby?


What Are Symptoms of Teething in a Baby?

That’s a great question — and one that every parent wonders about sooner or later! 🍼🦷

Teething is a normal part of your baby’s growth, but it can cause a range of symptoms as those tiny teeth push through the gums. Understanding these signs helps you comfort your baby and know when it’s just teething — or something more.

👶 What Are Symptoms of Teething in a Baby?

🦷 1. Swollen or Tender Gums

💧 2. Increased Drooling

😣 3. Fussiness or Irritability

  • The pressure of teeth coming through tender gums can make babies cranky, clingy, or restless.

  • They may cry more often, especially at night when discomfort feels worse.

🍼 4. Changes in Eating or Sleeping Habits

  • Babies may refuse the bottle or breast, or eat less solid food because their gums hurt.

  • They might also wake up more often or have trouble sleeping.

👋 5. Biting and Chewing on Everything

🌡️ 6. Slight Temperature Increase (But Not a Fever)

  • A mild rise in body temperature can happen with teething, but a true fever (above 100.4°F / 38°C) is not caused by teething.

⚠️ If your baby has a fever, diarrhea, or rash, contact your pediatrician — those are likely signs of illness, not teething.

💩 7. Mild Changes in Drool or Bowel Habits

  • Some babies may get looser stools or mild irritation from swallowing extra saliva, but it should not be severe or prolonged.

💔 8. Ear Pulling or Cheek Rubbing

  • Babies sometimes rub their cheeks or tug their ears on the same side as a coming tooth — the pain can radiate from the gums to nearby areas.

🕒 When Does Teething Start?

  • Most babies start teething around 6 months, though it can begin as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months.

  • The lower front teeth (bottom central incisors) usually appear first.

🩺 When to Call the Doctor

Contact your pediatrician if your baby:

  • Has a high fever (over 100.4°F / 38°C)

  • Shows severe diarrhea, rash, or vomiting

  • Is refusing to eat or drink

  • Seems unusually lethargic or unwell

These are not typical teething symptoms and may indicate another issue.

❤️ In Summary

Common teething symptoms:

✅ Swollen, tender gums
💧 Lots of drool
😣 Irritability or crying
👶 Biting and chewing
🍼 Changes in sleep or appetite
💔 Rubbing cheeks or ears

Teething is temporary — but those little smiles that follow are worth it!

OTHER SOURCES

Symptoms of teething in a baby can include:

* Increased irritability
* Placing objects or fingers in the mouth and biting down on them
* Increased saliva or drooling
* Loss of appetite or becoming choosy about foods
* Tender and swollen gums
* Rash on cheeks or redness in the area of the cheeks near the affected gums
* Restlessness
* Ear pulling, which may be a sign of teething or possibly an ear infection (make an appointment to have your child seen by your doctor or pediatrician)

Teething does not result in fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. If your child experiences these problems, contact your doctor.

What Are Symptoms of Teething in a Baby? Video



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What Can I Do to Ease Teething Pain?


What Can I Do to Ease Teething Pain?

That’s a wonderful and caring question — teething can be tough for both babies and parents! 🍼🦷

When your baby’s first teeth begin to come in (usually around 6 months), their gums can become swollen, sore, and tender. Fortunately, there are many gentle, effective ways to ease teething pain and keep your little one comfortable.

🧸 What Can I Do to Ease Teething Pain?
👶 1. Give Something Cool to Chew

Cold helps numb the gums and reduce inflammation.
Offer a chilled (not frozen) teething ring or a cold, clean washcloth for your baby to chew on.
You can also chill a spoon in the fridge and let your baby gently gnaw or suck on it.

⚠️ Avoid freezing items solid — they can hurt sensitive gums.

🦷 2. Massage the Gums

Wash your hands thoroughly, then gently rub or massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger.
The pressure can help soothe the ache and distract from the discomfort.

🧊 3. Offer Cold Foods (If Baby Is Eating Solids)

Try chilled pureed fruits like applesauce or mashed bananas.
Cold yogurt can also be soothing for older infants.
Always supervise your baby while eating to prevent choking.

🪥 4. Provide a Safe Teething Toy

Use BPA-free teething toys made of soft silicone or natural rubber.
Avoid teething jewelry or amber necklaces — they pose choking and strangulation risks.

🍼 5. Keep Up with Comfort

Cuddles, rocking, and extra attention help distract your baby from discomfort.
A bit of extra comfort during teething goes a long way!

💧 6. Keep Drool Under Control

Teething often increases drooling, which can irritate the skin.
Gently wipe your baby’s chin and neck often, and use a soft bib to stay dry.
Apply a thin layer of baby-safe moisturizer to prevent rashes.

🌿 7. Ask About Pain Relief (If Needed)

If your baby seems very uncomfortable:
You can ask your pediatrician about giving infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen (only for babies over 6 months).
Always follow dosing instructions carefully.

⚠️ Avoid teething gels or creams containing benzocaine — they are not safe for babies.

🕒 8. Be Patient — It’s Temporary

Most babies feel the worst discomfort a few days before a tooth breaks through. Once the tooth appears, the pain usually eases quickly.

💡 Extra Tips:

Keep a teething kit on hand — chilled teether, clean washcloth, and bib.

Maintain gentle oral hygiene even before teeth erupt: wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings.

❤️ Remember:

Teething is a natural milestone — though it can be uncomfortable, it’s a sign your baby is growing healthy and strong. With gentle care, patience, and lots of love, your little one will get through it just fine.

What Can I Do to Ease Teething Pain? Video



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Are You at Risk for Gum Disease?




Dental Health
Are You at Risk for Gum Disease?

Many people don’t realize they have gum disease (periodontal disease) until it’s advanced, but early detection makes a big difference.

Here’s a clear breakdown to help you understand whether you might be at risk for gum disease and what signs to watch for. 🦷

🪥 Are You at Risk for Gum Disease?
🧠 What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place, caused by the buildup of plaque — a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth.
If plaque isn’t removed by daily brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, leading to inflammation, gum recession, and eventually even tooth loss.

⚠️ Major Risk Factors:

Not brushing twice a day or skipping flossing allows bacteria to thrive along the gumline.

Plaque buildup leads to gingivitis — the earliest stage of gum disease.


Smoking or chewing tobacco slows healing and weakens your gums’ ability to fight infection.
Smokers are up to 6 times more likely to develop gum disease.


Pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause can make gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation.


People with diabetes are at higher risk because high blood sugar affects circulation and healing.
Conversely, gum disease can also make it harder to control blood sugar levels.


Some people inherit a natural susceptibility to gum disease even with good oral care.


Lack of vitamin C, antioxidants, and a balanced diet weakens gum tissues and immunity.


Chronic stress lowers the body’s ability to fight infection, including oral infections.


Some drugs reduce saliva flow (causing “dry mouth”), which allows bacteria to grow faster.


Crowded or crooked teeth make it harder to remove plaque effectively.

🔎 Common Warning Signs of Gum Disease

If you notice any of these symptoms, see your dentist promptly:

Red, swollen, or tender gums

Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing

Persistent bad breath or bad taste

Receding gums or teeth that look longer

Loose or shifting teeth

Changes in bite or denture fit

🩺 How to Prevent Gum Disease

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste (2 minutes each time).

Floss or use interdental brushes once a day to remove plaque between teeth.

See your dentist regularly (every 6 months) for professional cleanings.

Quit smoking and limit alcohol or sugary foods.

Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamin C, D, and calcium.

Use an antibacterial mouth rinse if recommended by your dentist.

💡 Remember:

Gum disease starts silently — you may not feel pain at first.
But early detection can reverse gingivitis and prevent more serious stages like periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss.

Have you heard about periodontal disease? 
It’s a topic that often is covered in newspapers and magazines. What many people don’t realize is that it’s quite common among adults.
Periodontal disease - also called gum disease - is an infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth. In the early stages, periodontal disease often goes unnoticed because there is often
little, if any, pain. Periodontal diseases are progressive-left untreated, the condition generally worsens.

Recent research suggests there may be a link between gum disease and other health concerns such as cardiovascular problems, stroke, bacterial pneumonia and increased risk during pregnancy. Although more studies are needed, researchers are trying to determine if the bacteria or the inflammatory response associated with gum disease play a role in affecting these systemic problems. Tobacco use also increases the risk of gum disease.

What causes gum disease?

It’s caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. If plaque is not removed with thorough daily brushing and cleaning between teeth, the bacteria produce toxins
that can irritate and inflame the gums. Left untreated, gum tissues can separate from the teeth and form spaces called pockets. The pockets provide a home for more bacteria, and if untreated, the process can continue until the bone and other tooth-supporting tissues are destroyed.

How can I tell if I have gum disease?

You may not even be aware that you have gum disease because often there is no pain. There are warning signs that can tip you off, however. If you experience any of the following between your dental check-ups, call your dentist:

* Gums that bleed during toothbrushing
* Red, swollen or tender gums
* Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
* Persistent bad breath
* Pus between the teeth and gums
* Loose or separating teeth
* A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
* A change in the fit of partial dentures

However, it’s possible to have gum disease without having these warning signs.

How does my dentist check for gum disease?

During a dental check-up, the dentist examines the gums for periodontal problems. He or she inspects the color and firmness of the gums. During the exam, the dentist uses a very small instrument called a periodontal probe to gently measure the depth between your teeth and gums. This will determine whether you have periodontal pockets. The normal space between teeth and healthy gums should be three millimeters or less. Generally, the more advanced the gum disease, the greater the depth of the pockets.

Dental x-rays may be taken to evaluate the health of bones that support the teeth. X-rays are also used to detect other problems or conditions that are not visible during the clinical examination. Your bite-the way the teeth fit together-may be evaluated, too.
Dental Health...
wisdom-tooth-extraction.
Are You at Risk for Gum Disease? Video



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