Gum disease is the swelling, soreness, or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. It’s one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss in the US.
It’s caused by plaque, which is a film of bacteria that forms on the surface of your teeth. Plaque forms daily so it’s important to remove it by brushing and flossing your teeth daily. Smoking also can worsen the condition, so it’s recommended to quit if you’re suffering from gum disease.
If prevention is no longer an option, it’s important to visit your dentist. They’ll work to remove all plaque from your teeth and may possible need to treat the roots of your teeth to make sure all pockets of bacteria are removed. This process is called root planing. It’s important to stay on top of any plaque problems to prevent future tooth loss!
