Periodontal (Gum) Disease Torrance CA | Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Periodontal Disease Torrance CA

What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Periodontal Disease Torrance, CA

Inflamed or bleeding gums? You are not alone. Almost 48% of U.S. adults age 30 and older have mild to severe periodontal disease, the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. At Dentist of Torrance, we believe that knowing the symptoms and causes of periodontal disease will allow you to protect your oral health.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is the bacterial infection of the gums, ligaments, and bones surrounding your teeth.

Periodontal disease can be separated into two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.

What is Gingivitis Periodontal Disease?

Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease and usually begins with plaque buildup. When plaque accumulates and then hardens from calcium in the saliva, tartar forms. Germs in the tartar can damage gum tissue, causing your body to go on the offensive with an inflammatory attack to eliminate the germs. This inflammation (gingivitis) is the reason why gum tissue easily bleeds during brushing and flossing.

Often caused by an inadequate oral hygiene routine, gingivitis is reversible with proper oral care at home and professional treatment.

What is Periodontitis?

If gingivitis is allowed to go untreated, plaque can extend and grow below your gum line, causing gum irritation. In an effort to combat the irritation, your body creates a response that breaks down and destroys the very bone and tissues that support your teeth. As periodontitis progresses, even more tissue and bone are damaged. Eventually teeth will loosen and need to be removed.

Periodontal disease has a few different forms. Some of the most common include:

  • Chronic Periodontitis:
  • Aggressive Periodontitis
  • Necrotizing Periodontitis
  • Periodontitis Due to Systemic Disease
Periodontal Disease Torrance CA
Periodontal Disease Torrance CA

What are the Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is often referred to as a “silent” disease. Many people don’t realize they have it because pain is not always a symptom. If you have experienced any of the following below, contact the periodontal experts at Dentist of Torrance for an appointment:

  • Separating or loose teeth
  • Ill-fitting bridges or partial dentures that once fit properly
  • Fillings becoming defective
  • Red, tender, or swelling gums
  • Bleeding gums while brushing, flossing, or biting into hard foods
  • Receding gums
  • Bad breath
  • Consistently tasting metal in your mouth
  • Pus between the gums and teeth
  • Mouth sores or irritation that lasts longer than two weeks

What are Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease?

Besides plaque, the main cause of gum disease, there are a few other factors that can adversely affect your gums’ health.

If you think you may have periodontal disease, don’t wait to schedule an appointment at Dentist or Torrance.

Start Restoring Your Gum Health Today!

Contact us at 310-651-7660 for questions, concerns, or more information about periodontal disease, and take the first step toward a healthier smile.

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