Gum Disease

Do you have any of these eight signs of gum (periodontal) disease?

1. Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth.

2. Gums that are red, swollen or tender.

3. Gums that have been pulled away from your teeth.

4. Pus between your teeth and gums when the gums are pressed.

5. Permanent teeth that are loose and separating.

6. Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.

7. Any change in the way your partial dentures fit.

8. Bad Breath.

If you have any of these warning signs, you may have periodontal disease, which is the major cause of tooth loss in adults. Periodontal disease results from a buildup of plaque, a thin, sticky, colorless film of bacteria, that forms on your teeth everyday. If plaque is not removed daily, it hardens into a deposit called tartar. This deposit collects under the gum line, making it more difficult to remove. Without treatment, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets between the teeth and gums. Plaque and its harmful byproducts can then move down along the teeth to the roots. Eventually, the bone supporting the teeth may be destroyed and teeth may become loose and fall out or have to be removed.


You can prevent periodontal disease by:

1. Removing plaque by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. Anti-plaque rinses are no substitute for brushing and flossing, but may decrease plaque to some extent.

2. Flossing at least once a day. (Interdental brushes and special soft toothpicks may also help).

3. Eating a well-balanced diet and limiting snacks, especially those high in sugar, and sticky ones.

4. Visiting your dentist at least twice a year.

5. Checking your mouth often for the warning signs of gum disease.

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