Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in American adults. At Ray McKinley DDS & Brittany McKinley-Holloway DDS — McKinley General, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry in Shelby Township we take gum disease very seriously, and your should, too.
What do your gums do?
The soft tissue in your mouth, like skin, has a critical job. It safeguards the roots of your teeth. It also provides a barrier for the connective tissues and ligaments that hold your teeth in their sockets. Plus the alveolar bone in which your teeth are anchored.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease starts with inflammation. Gums become swollen and tender. In its early stages, gum disease is called gingivitis. As the disease progresses, the gums pull away from the teeth, developing pockets. This is called periodontitis or periodontal disease.
What causes periodontal disease?
Bacteria are always present in the oral cavity. When it is left on the teeth and gums, it turns into plaque. Plaque is a thick coating of bacteria on your gums and teeth. Plaque accumulates if it is not removed by rinsing, brushing, and flossing. If plaque accumulates in the gumline pockets, the gums can start receding. When plaque hardens, it is called tartar or calculus. You can’t brush away tartar with your toothbrush. You need to have a professional dental cleaning.
What are signs of gum disease?
- Sore gums
- Bad breath
- Loose gums
- A change in the color of gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain and tenderness
- Pus between teeth and gums
- Teeth that appear longer
- Growing spaces between teeth
- Changes in your bite
How does periodontitis threaten your health?
Gum disease ups your risk of:
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Heart attacks
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Osteoporosis
- Asthma
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Low infant birth weight
Gum disease is serious, but it is also a treatable condition at Ray McKinley DDS & Brittany McKinley-Holloway DDS — McKinley General, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry in Shelby Township. We offer a wide range of general dentistry procedures. Schedule an appointment today.
Contact Ray McKinley DDS & Brittany McKinley-Holloway DDS — McKinley General, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry:
586-685-0880
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
45665 Village Blvd
Shelby Township, Michigan
48315
