Gum disease is a common dental problem and can begin at any age. Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that contains bacteria. As this bacteria forms on your gums and teeth, it can worsen and harden into tartar, which may lead to chronic infection.
The First Stage of Gum Disease: Gingivitis
The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. Gingivitis causes redness, swelling and bleeding of the gums, but can be reversed with proper brushing and flossing. If gingivitis is left untreated, it will only get worse. An infection develops, and you may or may not notice symptoms such as pain or a change of colour in the gums. If gingivitis worsens from this point, your gums, tissues and bone begin to deteriorate, and your teeth can loosen and even fall out. If gum disease becomes advanced, you may need to have a dentist extract the affected teeth. You may need a single tooth implant if gum disease gets to an advanced stage.
A periodontist can detect gum disease and gingivitis early on and prevent them from progressing. A periodontist can help restore healthy gum and bone tissue through a number of surgical and non-surgical treatments including deep cleaning and scaling, soft tissue and bone grafts, and pocket reduction.
Reduce Your Risk of Gingivitis and Gum Disease
You can reduce your risk of gum disease with proper brushing and flossing, and by seeing your dentist regularly to have a thorough cleaning and check up to look for any signs of gum disease. Watch a related video on gum recession.