A Quick Review of Gum Disease for Patients in Ft. Lauderdale

We try to educate our current patients (and potential new patients) by providing them with a basic understanding of what’s really going on inside their mouth with their teeth and gums – and why problems that have occurred have led them to seek our services.

Here are a few common, related questions. The following info is provided by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Visit their website here.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Our mouths are full of bacteria. These bacteria, along with mucus and other particles, constantly form a sticky, colorless “plaque” on teeth. Brushing and flossing help get rid of plaque. Plaque that is not removed can harden and form “tartar” that brushing doesn’t clean. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar.

What is Gingivitis?

The longer plaque and tartar are on teeth, the more harmful they become. The bacteria cause inflammation of the gums that is called “gingivitis.” In gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and can bleed easily.

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. This form of gum disease does not include any loss of bone and tissue that hold teeth in place.

What is Periodontitis?

When gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to “periodontitis” (which means “inflammation around the tooth”). In periodontitis, gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces (called “pockets”) that become infected.

The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place.

If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.

Speak with a Ft. Deerfield Beach area Periodontist Today

If you have questions for a periodontist – what we do, how we can help your smile, how we treat gum disease or what services we provide for ‘fixing smiles’ – please contact our offices. We’d be happy to talk more with you!

Deerfield Beach office: (954) 427-5700