Family Dentistry

Gum & Periodontal Disease

Gum (Periodontal) Disease affects your overall health. One of the principal causes of tooth loss and gum disease has also been linked to heart disease. If detected early, it can be treated and managed.

Gum disease is an infection in your gums and jaw bone and the primary cause of tooth loss. Your gums may be swollen, red, bleed and receded down your teeth. Usually, gum disease is a silent progressive problem which most people are unaware of until a dental professional alerts them. Gum disease may eventually result in an unstable base for your teeth, which then become mobile and may fall out or have to be removed.

Gum disease (periodontal disease) is a primary cause of tooth loss, and is often linked to diabetes.

Gum disease affects your overall health. Moderate to severe gum disease has been strongly linked to strokes, adverse pregnancy outcomes and especially diabetes.

Diabetes slows blood circulation, which can contribute to the onset of infections of gum tissues. High saliva sugar levels associated with diabetes contribute to the growth of bacteria which causes gum disease. Smoking and poor oral hygiene for people with diabetes significantly heightens the incidence of gum disease.

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