Find answers and other helpful dental topics in our digital library.

• Child's First Visit
• Implants
• Veneers
• Whitening
• Sedation
• Smile Gallery
• Educational Videos

Gum Disease

Gum disease (periodontal disease) is responsible for about 70% of adult tooth loss.

A proper diagnosis of gum disease requires a comprehensive periodontal examination. There are a number of factors we will gather to determine this important information. The dentist and hygienist will look at the texture, shape and position of your gum tissue. She will also assess bacterial plaque; bleeding and pus (exudate), unpleasant mouth odor, as well as, loose or sensitive teeth. All of these factors give important clues to recognizing gum disease and recommending proper treatment.

Periodontal probe readings are a very important tool used to look for indicators of gum disease. The dentist or hygienist uses an instrument with markings on it (like a ruler) to take several measurements around each tooth. This instrument measures pockets between the tooth and gum line. In most cases, 1-3mm readings are desirable and indicate healthy, strong gums. Readings deeper than 3mm indicate areas of gum inflammation and/or loss of the bone, which is needed to anchor your teeth. This bone loss may also be visible on x-rays.

The same tool used to measure pocket depths is also used to record gum recession, another disease indicator. Recession is measured from the gum line to the area where the root and the crown of the tooth meet. There are several causes of recession including age (years of normal wear and tear and brushing), over zealous brushing, and hard bristled brushes. It can also sometimes occur following gum disease treatment because the treated tissues become less inflamed and puffy and as they shrink the gum line moves down the tooth.

Generally, healthy gums are firm, pink and do not bleed when gently probed.

Early diagnosis and treatment of infection is very important to an individual's overall health. Heart attack, stroke, respiratory ailments and low-birth-weight babies are among the health risks linked with diseases in the mouth.

Early detection of gum disease improves the treatment success rate and greatly increases the likelihood of keeping your teeth well into your senior years.

Click here for more information about Dry Mouth