It can be very difficult to think that you may be suffering from gum or periodontal disease. A condition like this can affect your health and your confidence. Sore or damaged gums may make it difficult to eat, and they can cause you to hide your smile from others.

At Good Health Dental, our trained specialists can spot the early warning signs of gum disease and advise you on the right course of action to keep your gums in good health.

Periodontal disease is actually a common condition which can be present in a number of forms ranging from mild to severe.

Periodontal disease causes the gums to become weaker and can result in teeth decaying faster or even falling out.

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gum tissue which holds your teeth in place. This includes the ligaments which anchor your teeth to your jaw bone. One of the main reasons all dentists encourage each of us to pay attention to our oral hygiene is to prevent periodontal disease. Because bacteria is the main cause of the disease, flossing and brushing daily is key to prevention of the plaque buildup. Regular dental cleanings are very important to maintain. 

Periodontal disease is a common condition which ranges from mild to severe. If you have had your gums bleed when you brush or floss, you may have had a mild case of gingivitis. Regular dental visits will enable a dentist to catch early-stage gum disease and reverse it. Some individuals with autoimmune diseases are more vulnerable to experiencing gum disease. Signs of periodontal disease include bleeding gums, receding gum lines, white spots on the gums, and persistent bad breath.  Early treatments involve practicing better oral hygiene and possibly the use of antibiotics. Left unattended, this can develop into periodontal disease which in its worst stage can lead to loss of teeth, and possibly the need for gum or bone graft surgery. 

What are some of the warning signs of Periodontal (Gum) Disease? If you notice that your gums bleed when you brush and/or floss your teeth, that is a good sign that you have gingivitis, or possibly an even further progressed version of the disease. Signs of more advanced disease include loose teeth, loss of teeth, and halitosis (bad breath).

While some gum disease can be attributed to poor nutrition, some individuals are genetically susceptible to it. Everything from simple cleanings, treatments with our LiteTouch laser, or dental grafts can be used to treat the condition.