Almost 90% of adults had various levels of gum diseases at some point in their life, but many go unidentified. However, gum diseases or periodontal diseases are one main reason why people lose their teeth.

Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support and hold the teeth in place. Sometimes, the gum infection can begin without warning or any symptoms. During the initial stages of gum disease, the gum can become sore and bleed easily and contribute to bad breath. The teeth will start to loosen and separate, leading to teeth loss during the later stages of gum disease.

One main reason contributing to periodontal disease is poor dental hygiene, which allows plaque to build up on the teeth. However, genetics, too, can cause periodontal disease at times.

The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, and is characterized by the inflammation of the gums that occur because of the development of plaque or bacteria that accumulates on the teeth. Though gingivitis does not pose any serious threats, untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is more serious.

Early warning signs of periodontitis include:

• Tender or swollen gums.
• Bad breath.
• Gums that appear pinker or dusky red.
• Gums or a tooth that are sensitive.
• Gums that pull away from teeth, making them appear longer than they used to be.
• Bleeding gums.
• Teeth that start to feel loose.

Treatments

Scaling and root planing

This treatment works if you have a milder case of periodontitis and removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria through an in-depth cleaning process.

Laser Treatment

LANAP Laser method encourages the gums to reattach to the tooth and offers a less painful treatment alternative to conventional surgery.

Gum Grafting

For severe cases of periodontitis that can't be treated with any other methods, a gum graft surgery may be required.