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Restorative Dentistry
Gum Disease
The main cause of gum disease is plaque, a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms and attacks the gums surrounding the teeth and the bone supporting your teeth.
If your gums are red, swollen or bleed easily, there may be no discomfort, but you may have gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is usually caused by inadequate oral hygiene and can be easily reversed with professional treatment and good home care.
Untreated gingivitis can lead to a more advanced stage of the disease called periodontitis. In this case, the film of bacteria and plaque eventually spreads below the gum line and attacks the tissue and bone supporting the teeth. The gums begin to separate from the roots of the teeth, forming pockets where more bacteria and plaque can accumulate. If untreated, hard tartar forms, and the pockets deepen as more and more tissue and bone is destroyed and finally the tooth becomes loose and may need to be extracted. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important that you see a dentist soon to prevent further deterioration. Treating gum disease requires short-term and long-term strategies. We will work with you to design an in-office and home-care program to maintain your ultimate dental health.