Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. Most people don’t realize that they have gum disease because it is generally painless until it has progressed to the very final stages. Gum disease is silently affecting millions of Americans, most of whom are not seeking treatment. Consequences of this disease include permanent tooth loss, increased risk of stroke and heart disease, and pre-term, low birth weight babies.

Bacterial plaque and plaque by-products are the main cause of periodontal disease. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film that forms on your teeth. The bacteria in plaque are constantly reproducing, so plaque is constantly forming. This may cause your gums to become red and swollen. This earliest stage of periodontal disease is called “gingivitis” and can be reversible if you follow a daily oral hygiene routine of proper brushing and flossing.

Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis. With this condition pockets have formed between the teeth and gums allowing bacterial plaque to accumulate more readily and to cause infection. Additionally, periodontitis signifies that the supporting bone around the teeth has begun to be destroyed. Although there isn’t much pain involved with periodontitis, the consequences can be discomforting. These include an unhealthy smile (gums are pulled back from the teeth), persistent, offensive bad breath, gums that are infected and bleed, and eventually teeth that become loose and may require removal.

Your dental health team can help you to better understand periodontal disease and how you can prevent it. During your recare appointment they can quickly check and monitor the condition of your gums and determine if there are any signs of infection or pockets that are deeper than normal. Dr. Burley may suggest a course of treatment that will help stop any further damage to your gums and surrounding bone. Your dental team will then design a home care regimen for your specific needs.