Gum Disease
Gum Disease
Don't delay treatment to prevent gum disease
Gum disease is a serious infection, attacking the soft tissue around the tooth and destroying the bone that supports the tooth. It's also known as periodontitis. The infection begins as plaque, which is an opaque film on teeth that hardens to form tartar. As tartar accumulates, it becomes a host for bacteria that attacks the soft tissue at the base of the teeth.
An early stage of gum disease is gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis. Early warning signs that a patient may have gingivitis are bleeding gums and bad breath. The disease advances silently and often without pain.
Tooth loss is an obvious indicator of a serious gum infection. Scientific research has shown links to gum disease and stroke, heart disease, and diabetes. Pregnant women can be affected by gum disease because the body's entire immune system is weakened.
Call the staff at Dentist of Lake Mary immediately at (407) 413-9000 to schedule a consultation if you think you have gum disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontitis, is a serious infection that attacks the soft tissue around the teeth and destroys the bone that supports them.
How does gum disease start?
It begins as plaque, a film on the teeth that hardens into tartar. Tartar becomes a host for bacteria that attack the tissue at the base of the teeth. The early stage is gingivitis, which can develop into periodontitis if left untreated.
What are the warning signs?
Early warning signs include bleeding gums and bad breath. Gum disease often advances silently and without pain, and tooth loss is a sign of a serious infection.
Is gum disease linked to other health problems?
Research has shown links between gum disease and stroke, heart disease and diabetes. Pregnant women can also be more vulnerable to gum disease.
What should I do if I think I have gum disease?
Call Dentist of Lake Mary right away at (407) 413-9000 to schedule an exam. Early treatment makes a big difference.