Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease (Periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. The main cause of gum disease is bacterial plaque, the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. This can lead to a condition known as gingivitis, which causes your gums to become red, swollen, and extremely sensitive.

If left untreated, gingivitis will advance to periodontitis, causing the gums to separate from the teeth and form pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums). And when bacterial plaque enters these pockets, the area becomes infected and leads to gum disease.

Gum disease can lead to bad breath, bleeding and infected gums, and even tooth loss. And according to the American Academy of Periodontology, consequences of this disease may also include a higher risk of stroke and heart attack. However, what makes gum disease extremely scary is that it’s painless. So you may be unaware that you even have the disease. This is why periodic examinations are incredibly important.

Gum disease currently affects over 50 million Americans. Are you one of them?

If you are, Olney Dental can help!