What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum Disease Bismarck NDPeriodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue of the gums and destroys the underlying bone that supports your teeth. Periodontitis can even cause teeth to loosen or, in extreme cases, to fall out.

Periodontitis is, unfortunately, common but preventable in many cases. Sadly, it usually comes about as a result of poor oral hygiene. Brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily and seeing your dentist for check-ups regularly can improve your chances of successful treatment for periodontitis. In fact, doing those things can greatly reduce your chance of developing it. If you are worried you may have gum disease, keep reading.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Healthy gums are firm, a pale pink color, and fit fairly snug around the teeth. Signs and symptoms of periodontitis may include:

  • Swollen/puffy gums
  • Bright red or purplish gums
  • Gums that feel tender
  • Loose teeth
  • Pain while chewing
  • A change in your bite, or how your teeth fit together
  • Gums that bleed easily
  • Receding gums that make teeth look longer
  • New spaces occurring between your teeth
  • Pus between your teeth and gums
  • Bad breath

Causes of Gum Disease

In most cases, periodontitis starts with plaque, a sticky film which is composed mainly of bacteria and rests on the surface of the teeth. If left untreated, plaque can lead to periodontitis. First, plaque forms on your teeth when sugars in food interact with bacteria in your mouth. Brushing your teeth twice a day removes plaque, but plaque will re-form. Then, if it is untreated, plaque can harden under the gum line into tartar. Tartar is harder, and more difficult to remove. The longer plaque and tartar remain on your teeth, the more bad bacteria can do harm. Tartar can’t be removed by brushing and flossing, which is why seeing your dentist regularly is so important.

If you are worried about gum disease, let us help you. Give us a call today at (701) 222-1800 for our Bismarck office or (701) 463-2884 for our Garrison office to schedule a consultation. We want to help you have the most healthy, beautiful smile you deserve!

Posted in: Periodontics

Request an Appointment

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Financing

Financing is available for those
who qualify.