Gum disease is an infection of the gum tissue primarily caused by a buildup of tartar at the gum line. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. Symptoms include bad breath, and red or inflamed gums that bleed easily during brushing and flossing.
In time gingivitis can develop into the more dangerous form of gum disease known as periodontitis. This inflammation and infection deep in your gums slowly causes your gums to pull back from the base of your teeth. This opens up pockets of infection deep which can compromise the roots of your teeth and even cause bone loss in your jaw.
The systemic inflammation caused by this chronic infection also taxes the immune system. This can have an impact on other medical conditions. Continuing research has found a relationship between periodontitis and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and certain types of cancer. Even though periodontitis cannot not cause these conditions, the inflammation and immune response problems can complicate treatment options.
If you have questions about gum disease, or you are concerned that you might have developed gum disease, please feel free to call us at 571-261-2600 so we can help you explore your treatment options.