Gum disease is a chronic infection of the gum tissue that can lead to tooth loss, serious health problems and even death. But if you catch it early, with proper home care and regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups, you can reverse the damage and keep the disease under control.
The first sign of gum disease is bleeding when you brush or floss. This is because the gums are irritated by plaque and tartar that have built up on your teeth. As the inflammation from this buildup worsens, the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth and creates pockets that trap plaque, bacteria and toxins. You may also notice a bad odor, pus around the gum line or loose teeth. This stage is called gingivitis and it’s reversible with good oral hygiene, including daily brushing, flossing and rinsing.
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Left untreated, gum disease progresses to periodontitis. During this stage, the infection moves below the gum line to attack the ligaments and bone that support your teeth. The teeth become more crooked, and bites are more difficult to chew. This stage is harder to treat and can be very painful.
The first treatment for advanced gum disease is a dental professional cleaning that removes hardened plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line (scaling and root planing). Your dental professional can also use a laser to kill bacteria and encourage gum tissue growth to repair the damage caused by your gum disease. Your dentist may also prescribe oral antibiotics to fight infection and help you heal.
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