If your gums are unusually tender and red or if flossing causes your gums to swell and bleed, you may be suffering from Periodontal Disease (gum disease).

This is quite common - three out of four adults are diagnosed with periodontal disease each year. Nearly 70 percent of adult tooth loss can be attributed to gum disease.  Periodontal disease can be caused be the lack of oral care, or it can also be hereditary

Periodontal disease is caused by an excessive build-up of bacterial plaque on the teeth. As the plaque hardens, toxins are released from the bacteria causing the gums (soft tissue) to become irritated. The soft tissue and bone that support the teeth become increasingly damaged with the progression of the disease. If left untreated, Periodontal disease can lead to more serious health issues.  It has also been linked to heart disease in women. 

Gum disease can be controlled if the appropriate treatment measures are taken in a timely manner. When the disease is in its early stages, we typically only need to remove plaque and calculus in and around the affected tooth/teeth. However, if the disease is advanced, surgical treatment by the Periodontist may be necessary. 

There are many new surgical and non-surgical treatments along with laser therapy that can minimize your discomfort.