Gum diseases are the result of numerous factors; however, they are primarily a bacterially induced inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. The basic, and most common, form of gum disease is caused by the bacteria found in plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If this bacterial film is not removed through daily brushing and flossing, plaque can build up and the bacteria can infect not only your gums and teeth, but eventually the gum tissue and bone that support the teeth. This can cause your teeth to become loose, fall out or have to be removed by a dentist. When teeth are lost, the jaw bone begins to slowly collapse and become smaller; essentially, the mouth begins to age quickly through a degenerative process known as “atrophy.” There are three basic stages of gum disease:

• Gingivitis: This is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gum line. If daily brushing and flossing do not remove the plaque, the residual bacteria can produce toxins (poisons) that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. You may notice some bleeding during brushing and flossing. At this early stage in gum disease, the damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected.

• Periodontitis: At this stage, the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may begin to form a pocket below the gum line, which traps food and plaque. Proper dental treatment and improved home care can usually help prevent further damage.

• Advanced Periodontitis: In this final stage of gum disease, the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are destroyed, which can cause your teeth to shift or loosen. This can affect your bite (occlusion) and, if aggressive treatment can't save them, teeth may need to be removed.

Signs of Gum Diseases:

Gum disease can occur at any age, but it is most common among adults. If it is detected in its early stages, gum disease can be reversed. See your dentist if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Gums which are red, puffy, swollen, or tender

• Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing

• Teeth that appear longer because your gums have receded

• Gums that have separated, or pulled away, from your teeth, creating a pocket

• Changes in the way your terth fit together when you bite

• Pus coming from between your teeth and gums

• Constant bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth

Treatment for Gum Disease:

• The early stages of gum disease can often be reversed with proper brushing and flossing. Good oral hygiene will help keep plaque from building up.

• A professional cleaning by your dentist or hygienist is the only way to remove plaque that has built up and hardened into tartar (calculus). Your dentist or hygienist will clean or "scale" your teeth to remove the tartar above and below the gum line. If your condition is more severe, a root planing procedure may be performed. Root planing helps to smooth irregularities on the roots of the teeth making it more difficult for plaque to deposit there.

By scheduling regular checkups, early stage gum diseases can be treated before it leads to a much more serious condition. If your condition is more advanced, treatment in the dental office will be required which will be directed at restoring health, function and appearance to your smile.