Conditions - Gum Disease

Gum Disease

What is Gum Disease?

According to the American Dental Association, at least 60% of adults in the United States have moderate-to-severe gum disease! No doubt, you've heard some of the terms: Plaque, Tartar, Calculus, Gingivitis, Periodontitis, Pyorrhea, Periodontal Disease, Gum Disease. But what does it all mean? Quite simply, Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease) starts when plaque and tartar (calculus) are allowed to accumulate at the base of your teeth. The bacteria in the plaque leads to an infection in the gums (gingiva) called Gingivitis. Left untreated, the infection spreads to the tissue and bone that holds your teeth in place, a condition called Periodontitis (Pyorrhea). Because of the bacterial infection associated with Periodontitis, tooth abscesses are also common.


Healthy gums and bone.	This patient has Periodontitis. Notice the large black spacces between the teeth where bone has been destroyed.

What are the Signs of Gum Disease?

Gum Disease is rarely painful, especially in the early stages. Some of the common signs of Gum Disease are:

Gums that bleed when you brush or floss (healthy gums will not bleed)
Gums that are red, swollen, or tender
Gums that have pulled away from the teeth (receded)
Pus (infection) between the teeth and gums
Loose permanent teeth or separating (drifting) teeth
Changes in the way your teeth fit together when chewing
Persistent bad breath

What are the Dangers of Gum Disease?

Gum Disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. More importantly, the infection releases toxins into the bloodstream leading to serious health risks:

diagram of Gum Disease dangers

Sources: National Institute of Dental & Craniofacial Research
and American Heart Association

Is There a Cure?

The reason that Gum Disease is so serious is because the destroyed bone and tissue cannot be regenerated. Gum Treatment can effectively be used to treat and control even advanced cases of Periodontitis (Pyorrhea), but the more advanced the disease, the more likely it will lead to tooth loss. Prevention and Early Detection are your best defenses against Gum Disease because the destruction of bone and tissue cannot be reversed, only abated.

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

The best "brushers" in the world will naturally build up tartar on their teeth. Even patients with "healthy" gums and teeth should see their dentist regularly to remove the build-up of tartar and check for the formation of new cavities. Patients with Gum Disease, or patients that build up large amounts of tartar, may need to have their teeth cleaned more frequently to help control their periodontal problems. At your regular recall appointments (Cleanings), we always evaluate the condition of your gums with a goal of helping you maintain the gum health you have achieved and keep you aware of any problem areas.

perio exam A thorough exam, which includes x-rays, visual inspection, and an analysis of hard and soft tissue, helps determine the health of your gums. The condition of your dental work can also affect your periodontal health. Broken fillings, decayed teeth that trap food, ill-fitting crowns or bridges - can all negatively impact your gum health. Mercury from fillings can also lead to inflammation and periodontal breakdown. Your nutritional status and supplementation needs will also be discussed relative to your periodontal health.

If you have any specific questions about Gum Disease that weren't answered here, or if you would like an appointment for a Gum Disease screening, please Contact Us.

© Copyright 2002- Dental WebSmith, Inc. and Groton Dental Wellness Spa, LLP. All rights reserved. Disclaimer: The information provided within is intended to help you better understand dental conditions and procedures. It is not meant to serve as delivery of medical or dental care. If you have specific questions or concerns, contact your health care provider.