Periodontal disease is an infection that affects the tissues and bone that support the teeth. With periodontal disease the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth and over time, the tissue and the bone that support the tooth are destroyed. Teeth may fall out or need to be removed. Some signs of periodontal disease include:
- gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- red, swollen or tender gums
- gums that pull away from your teeth
- pus between your teeth and gums
- teeth that are loose or separating
- a change in how your teeth fit together when you bite
- a change in how your dentures fit
If you have more advanced periodontal disease you may need scaling and root planning. One of our dentists will refer you to the Woodside Smile Dental Periodontist for treatment: remove the plaque and tartar and smooth the tooth’s root surfaces so the gum tissue can heal and reattach to the tooth.
Prevention and early treatment are the best ways to keep your teeth and gums and smile healthy.