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What Is Gum Disease
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection and inflammation of the tissues that support your teeth. It often starts as gingivitis—red, irritated gums that may bleed—then can progress if it isn’t managed. The good news is that with early attention and consistent care, gum health can often be stabilized.
Why Gum Health Matters
Protects Teeth And Supporting Bone
Healthy gums help support teeth long-term. Gum disease can affect the supporting structures if it progresses.
Improves Comfort And Freshness
Managing gum inflammation can help reduce tenderness, bleeding, and persistent bad breath for many patients.
Guides The Right Next Step
Understanding gum disease helps us recommend the most appropriate care—whether that’s routine prevention or periodontal treatment.
Common Signs And Risk Factors
Gum disease isn’t always painful at first. Some common signs include bleeding when brushing or flossing, swollen or tender gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, and changes in how your teeth fit together.
Risk factors can include smoking, diabetes, genetics, dry mouth, certain medications, and inconsistent home care. We’ll review your history and help you understand what may be contributing.
If gum disease is present, we’ll talk through treatment options and a maintenance plan to help keep inflammation under control over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about gum disease
Gingivitis is early-stage gum inflammation and is often reversible with good care. Periodontitis is a more advanced stage that can affect the supporting bone and requires ongoing management.
Gum disease is typically managed rather than “cured.” Many people can stabilize gum health with the right treatment plan and consistent maintenance.
Bleeding can be a sign of inflammation. It doesn’t always mean something serious, but it’s worth having evaluated so we can recommend the best next step.
If gum disease progresses, it can affect the structures that support teeth. Early evaluation and ongoing care can help reduce risks and support long-term stability.
Coverage varies by plan and by the type of care needed. We can review benefits with you and discuss costs before treatment.