• Posted on: Feb 24 2015

Gum disease (also called “periodontal disease”) is one of the most common dental health problems that patients encounter. If you have noticed your gums bleeding when you brush or floss, you should take steps now to minimize this problem before your condition doesn’t become worse. If gum disease reaches an advanced stage without being treated, it can eventually result in tooth loss.

Toxins and Bacteria

The toxins created by plaque and bacteria cause your body to raise its defenses; it does this by creating new blood vessels in the area, resulting in swollen, red gums. The same bacteria that prompted your body to fight off the infection will then start to attack the new blood vessels, causing the bleeding associated with gum disease.

Some people have a genetic predisposition to gum problems, but for most patients, gum disease is caused by poor dental hygiene, or staying way from the dentist too long. Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day is your best defense against gum disease. Flossing is an essential step to make sure the food debris stuck between your teeth in tight spaces is removed. Meanwhile, professional teeth cleanings will take care of the tartar that builds up on your teeth over time, and remove other debris you might have missed.

Symptoms and Expert Care

If you are noticing symptoms of gum disease, we can provide you with the expert care you need to protect your teeth and gums. Please contact A Life of Smiles today or call 616.458.0631 to schedule an appointment with our experienced Grand Rapids dentistry team. We serve patients throughout Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon, Rockford, and surrounding areas of Michigan.

Published by: Grand Rapids Dentistry Blog – A Life of Smiles
A Grand Rapids, Michigan based cosmetic, general & sedation dentistry

Tagged with: Dental Care, Good Dental Habits, Gum Disease, periodontal disease

Posted in: Featured Posts