Gum Treatment

Most of us have had gum disease at some point in our lives, whether it was a moderate case of
gingivitis or a more severe case of periodontitis. Gum disease can produce a number of unpleasant
symptoms and, if left untreated, can lead to major dental problems. Fortunately, with the right
treatment and care, you can protect your gums and keep your oral health in good shape.

Periodontal disease, often known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues that
surround and support your teeth. It is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and gums,
which causes irritation and damage to the gums, bones, and ligaments that keep your teeth in place.

The following are the symptoms of a gum disease:

• Bleeding from gums while brushing teeth, flossing or eating hard foods such as
  apples.
• Swollen, inflamed or sore gums that may be tender to the touch.
• Persistent bad breath and unpleasant taste in your mouth, even after brushing or using
  mouthwash.
• Gum recession, where your gums start to pull back from your teeth and expose the
  roots.
• Loose teeth that may even fall out or shift out of position.

There are two main stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is
the early stage and is characterized by mild inflammation and bleeding gums. If left
untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a more severe form of gum
disease that can cause permanent damage to the gums and bones.

The treatment for gum disease is determined by the severity of the infection. In mild cases of
gingivitis, a professional cleaning and basic dental hygiene practices at home may suffice. In
more severe situations, scaling and root planning, antibiotic therapy, or surgical procedures
may be required.