Hygiene

The gums represent the outer layer of the foundation of the teeth. Healthy looking gums usually represent a healthy foundation. While red and bleeding gums represent a form of gum disease.

Gum disease affects the bone support and the gum fibers which attach to the tooth. People who have gum disease usually are unaware of it because it does not hurt. However, the earliest sign of gum disease is bleeding gums, puffy looking gums and usually bad breath.

Through a thorough dental examination the health of your gums can be determined. This usually involves measuring and recording the periodontal pockets around the teeth, along with taking the appropriate X-rays.
Gone untreated, gum disease eventually leads to tooth loss. In fact, in today's society, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss.

Progression of gum disease

Fortunately, gum disease can be treated successfully and predictably most of the times.

Gum disease is caused by the accumulation of plaque, tartar and calculus around the teeth. The bacteria responsible for gum disease then use these accumulations as their source of food to grow and damage the gums and the bone. To get the right tools for taking care of your gums, click here.