What is Gum Disease?

Gingivitis is also known as gum disease.  It is the inflammation of the gums.  It is often the first stage of periodontal disease.

Warning signs

Bleeding when brushing or flossing Redness where the gums and tooth meet Swollen gums Bad breath

Gingivitis usually begins when plaque, the sticky colorless film of bacteria and food particles that constantly forms on your teeth, is not cleaned away every day.  When plaque stays on your teeth, for two or three days, it can harden into tartar.  Tartar cannot be brushed or flossed off the teeth and needs to be removed during your professional cleaning appointments.  Both plaque and tartar will irritate your gums and lead to gingivitis.  If untreated gingivitis will progress to Periodontal disease.

Gum disease can also be caused by certain medical conditions, some medications, trauma, smoking or chewing tobacco.  During pregnancy, hormonal changes can contribute to gum disease.

To determine if you have gingivitis, we examine your mouth and look for symptoms.  Because gingivitis can advance to periodontal disease, we may take x-rays to check your bone levels.
 
When periodontal disease has destroyed the bone around your teeth, a bone grafting procedure can often be used to replace the missing bone.  Depending on the circumstances, additional treatments such as proteins or platelet-rich plasma may be applied to encourage bone growth and help your gums reattach to the tooth.

If you have gingivitis, we thoroughly clean your teeth and may schedule you for more frequent cleanings.  We may also suggest a special mouth-rinse and discuss your home-care technique.