Gum disease begins with mild inflammation called gingivitis. Without treatment, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis or advanced gum disease.
How Gum Disease Develops
Gum disease starts when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—accumulates on the teeth and along the gumline. If not removed with regular brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, irritating the gums and causing symptoms like bleeding during oral hygiene.
Gingivitis (Early Stage)
Symptoms of gingivitis to look for are red, swollen, or puffy gums that may also bleed when brushing and flossing. At this stage, gum disease is fully reversible with a professional teeth cleaning and an improved at-home hygiene routine.
Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)
Left untreated, gingivitis leads to deep infections that attack the supporting bone. At this stage, you may notice receding gums, persistent bad breath, gum pockets, loose teeth, and bone loss.
Periodontitis cannot be reversed. Deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing remove bacteria beneath the gumline, but we must continually monitor your gum health to prevent the disease from progressing and causing irreparable damage.
If you develop gum disease, you can be confident that our dental team will provide the non-judgmental support and care you need. We’re your partners in oral health and will do everything to help you enjoy a healthy smile.
Take a Step Toward Healthier Gums
Early detection is key to preventing gum disease from progressing. Protect your oral health and call our dentist in West Chester, OH, today at (513) 772-4000 to schedule your next professional teeth cleaning.