Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the growth of bacteria on the teeth and gums. The bacteria is present in the plaque your mouth produces. If you don’t remove plague early, it will build up on your teeth and the tissue around the teeth will deteriorate. This might lead to major problems down the road and may even cause you to lose teeth.
Learn What Causes Gum Disease
Gum disease is mostly caused because of poor oral hygiene. Inflammation occurs in the tissue around the teeth, affecting the support and strength of the gums. Other than poor oral hygiene, there are many factors that contribute to what causes gum disease:
-
Family dental history
-
Bad habits like smoking
-
Taking medication that hinders the flow of saliva
-
Hormonal changes
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Regardless of what causes gum disease, symptoms tend to be similar for those who suffer from it. But gum disease is tricky. You may not even realize you have gum disease until it’s in it’s further stages. Gum disease can also be painful if not treated properly. Some ways to identify if you have gum disease are:
-
Red, swollen gums
-
Bleeding when brushing or flossing
-
Gums that are pulling away from teeth
-
Loose teeth
-
Sores in your mouth
-
Bad breath
Get Rid of Gum Disease
Now that you know what causes gum disease, it’s important to be aware of what treatment methods are available if you do end up being affected. Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the disease. Having a dentist you can trust is recommended for prevention and treatment purposes. Duffield Dentistry can provide care to you and your family with cutting edge dentistry practices. Call us today at 248-541-1388 to set up an appointment with Royal Oak dentist, Dr. Larry Duffield.