Periodontal or gum disease is a serious condition that can affect both your dental and overall physical health.  There are often no symptoms, but when there are they may include bleeding gums, receding gums, or tooth sensitivity.

So what is periodontal disease?  Simply put, it is an infection that affects the tissues and bone that support your teeth.  It usually develops in the areas between your teeth and gums that are called pockets.  These areas are more challenging to keep clean.  The infection begins by damaging your gums and then moves on to eat away the bone that supports your teeth.  When it is only affecting the gums it is called gingivitis.

Plaque, sometimes called biofilm, is the soft sticky substance that forms on your teeth between the times you brush and floss.  Bacteria live in this plaque.  After about 48 hours the plaque hardens and turns into tartar, which can only be removed with a professional teeth cleaning.  This tartar creates new nooks and crannies where the bacteria can hide and continue the process of infection and destroying your teeth.

It is rare for anyone to be able to clean their teeth perfectly every 48 hours and this is why it is important to see a dentist and dental hygienist regularly.  They can help you prevent and control gum disease and the serious medical conditions like heart disease and diabetes that it is linked to.

We would love to help you stay healthy by taking care of your oral health.  If you have any concerns about gum disease or other dental issues and live in the Alhambra area, give us a call: (626) 285-0285