There are two basic types of gum disease. They are both infections, and if they are left untreated, they can lead to tooth loss.
The first type of gum disease is gingivitis; or a superficial inflammation of the tissues right around your teeth. Though it can cause your gums to bleed or swell, gingivitis doesn’t threaten the long-term health of your teeth. However, left untreated, gingivitis can progress into the second and far more alarming infection: periodontitis. In addition to damaging the soft tissue in the mouth, Periodontitis slowly destroys the bone of the tooth. This combination of weak tissue and bone eventually cause teeth to come loose (and fall out.)
Unfortunately, clear-cut symptoms and warning signs for gum disease are hard to come by. Because the damage brought on by gum disease advances so slowly, by the time a patient notices a symptom (i.e. their tooth/teeth being loose), it is often too late.
So, what can you do? Preventive care. That means brushing, flossing especially, and regular professional cleanings.
When you come in to see us at Hylan Dental Care, we will check your gums and the bone support of your teeth. If you come to see us regularly, we will better be able to catch gum disease in its early stages (and even come up with a treatment plan such as more frequent visits/cleanings.)
No one wants to lose their teeth. We will work with you to help you keep them all your life!