Periodontics & Gum Disease Gardnerville, NV
Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the gums usually caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. If plaque is not removed with thorough daily brushing and cleaning between teeth, it can harden into tartar. As tartar accumulates, it harbors bacteria that attack the soft tissue around the gums, causing the gums to become irritated and inflamed. The irritated gum tissue can separate from the teeth and form spaces called pockets. Bacteria move into the pockets where they continue to promote irritation. This is the early stage of gum disease known as Gingivitis.
Left untreated, Gingivitis becomes Periodontitis which ultimately destroys the tissue surrounding your teeth AND the bone that holds your teeth in place.
Signs of Periodontal Disease
Except for bad breath and gums that bleed or swell, there are very few early warning signals. The disease advances silently, often without pain, and before you know it, you are losing your teeth and you don't know why. Tooth loss is only the most obvious indicator of gum disease.
Scientific research has discovered linkage between gum disease and stroke, heart disease, diabetes - even an increased risk for pregnant women. When your gums become diseased, your entire immune system is weakened.
