What is Gum Disease?

Do you have red, aching or swollen gums? Have you noticed gum recession or persistent bad breath? You may have gum disease.

Gum disease is an infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth that
is diagnosed by dental professionals. The infection is caused by bacteria that live in dental plaque in and around the gum line, in pockets that line the teeth. Even though it is often painless and may have few if any visible symptoms, if left untreated, gum disease frequently results in the loss of teeth. Early stages of gum disease that have not yet advanced into the bone are known as “gingivitis”. With treatment gingivitis is reversible, however once the infection has spread into the bone the damage becomes permanent, this stage is known as “periodontitis or periodontal disease”. People who smoke or have certain systemic conditions like diabetes are particularly vulnerable to periodontal disease.

Written by Ryan Mendro DDS, MS
Orlando Periodontist