GUM DISEASE

Gum disease also know as gingivitis is the inflammation around your gums (gingiva). Symptoms include swollen, red and bleeding gums which in some people are painful. If you should notice blood when you are brushing it is essential to seek a dental health professional immediately.

Gum disease is caused by not flossing and/or brushing frequently enough or not properly. People who use an antimicrobial mouth rinse(such as listerine) twice daily in conjunction with proper flossing and brushing habits reduces this disease significantly. Gum disease can also be brought on by hormone levels such as puberty and pregnancy. Haven’t had your teeth cleaned professionally on a regular basis? This is one of the main culprits for having gum disease.

The good news is if gum disease is caught in the early stages it is REVERSIBLE meaning you can go back to having healthy gums. However left untreated gingivitis can progress to become periodontitis ( bone destruction around the teeth) which unfortunately is NOT reversible. Whatever bone is lost will be lost indefinitely. Again early detection of gum disease is key to prevention. Regular 3-4 month professional cleanings with meticulous home care can reverse Gum disease and one can continue to maintain healthy gums. If it has been a while since you had a professional cleaning, don’t delay and book that appointment today!