Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, is a serious condition that will normally result in tooth loss. Gingivitis and periodontal disease are the most common forms of gum disease in adults. One way to prevent both types of gum disease is to brush your teeth daily and remove as much plaque as possible. If you allow the plaque to build up, it may result in gum disease.

Gingivitis is known as inflammation in the tissues of the gums. If plaque and tartar build up along the gum line, the gums will eventually get swollen and irritated. Over time, the gums will get very tender and start to appear puffy. When you brush your teeth, you will may notice that your gums become very sore and they start to bleed with little to no pressure. If you notice blood when brushing, chances are you have gingivitis.

During this stage of gingivitis, there is no loss of bone structure. You can help to prevent gingivitis by flossing and brushing daily. If you have gingivitis and you don’t seek treatment, it could lead to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a condition in which the bone and surrounding structures are destroyed. Even though this form of mouth disease cannot be reversed, you can put a stop to it’s progression by going to your dentist on a regular basis and brushing your teeth daily.

If you don’t stop the progression of periodontal disease, the condition will continue to get worse. During the early stages of the disease, you will notice that your gums appear to be bright red, and very sore. This is due to plaque build up below the gum line. When left untreated, the plaque and tartar that below the gums will continue to eat at the teeth.

Plaque doesn’t need to be visible or detected in order for periodontal disease to be diagnosed. In order to determine if you have periodontal disease, you will need to have your dentist examine you. Your dentist can perform tests on your gums and your teeth, to determine if you have it. If you do have periodontal disease, your dentist can tell you how to stop the progression and prevent it from getting worse.

Both periodontal disease and gingivitis are not painful and both tend to progress in a slowly. You may not even be aware that you have either. The symptoms and signs will start to show in the later stages. Once the later stages start to progress you may end up losing the tooth.

You should always go to the dentist for your regular checkups and cleaning and practice good oral hygiene. If you catch gum disease in time time, your dentist will be able to help you treat the earlier stages.

Call your South Tampa Dentist, Marnie Bauer DMD, for all of your dental needs – 813.839.2273