What is Gum Disease

Periodontal disease or Gum disease, as it is commonly known, is an infection of the supporting tissues of the teeth.

Your teeth are supported by the gums (or gingiva) and the roots of your teeth are anchored to the sockets by fibers called periodontal ligaments. There is a V-shaped gap called a sulcus that exists between the teeth and the gums. This is the area that periodontal disease affects. Eventually, in periodontal disease, the tissues supporting the tooth break down. If only the gums are involved in this breakdown, the disease is called gingivitis. If only the connecting tissues and bone are involved, it is called periodontitis.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is often silent, meaning symptoms may not appear until an advanced stage of the disease. However, warning signs of periodontal disease include the following:

• Red, swollen or tender gums or other pain in your mouth
• Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating hard food
• Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth, causing the teeth to look longer than before
• Loose or separating teeth
• Pus between your gums and teeth
• Sores in your mouth
• Persistent bad breath
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• A change in the fit of partial dentures

The American Academy of Periodontology's risk assessment test will help you see if you are at risk for having or developing periodontal (gum) disease. Millions of people don't know they have this serious infection that can lead to tooth loss if not treated.

For more information or to schedule a periodontal evaluation please visit www.precioussmiles.com or call our office at (305) 532-9114. Please call us if you have any questions about cosmetic dentistry, veneers, Invisalign, tooth whitening, or dental implants.