Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, occurs when the gum tissue becomes infected by bacteria in plaque. Early symptoms include red, swollen or bleeding gums. Left untreated, it can advance and cause the gums to separate from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. This advanced gum disease can destroy the bone and tissues that support the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss. It may also increase risks for health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Treatment options range from nonsurgical deep cleaning to treat early stages, to laser therapy and surgery for advanced gum disease. Regular dental checkups are important for preventing and treating gum disease.

1. GUM DISEASE:
WHAT YOU NEED
TO KNOW

2. Gum disease is a condition that occurs
when your gum tissue becomes infected.
If left untreated, advanced stages of
gum disease can result in tooth loss and
increase your risk of serious general
health issues.

3. C A U S E S O F G U M D I S E A S E
Hormonal
changes from
pregnancy,
puberty or
menopause
Illnesses such as
diabetes, cancer
or conditions
that affect your
immune system
Poor oral
hygiene habits
Genetics/family
history of gum
disease
Smoking

4. S Y M P T O M S O F
G U M D I S E A S E
Red, swollen, tender or
bleeding gums
Formation of deep
pockets between teeth
and gums
Receding gum line
1
2
3
4
Bad breath
5
Loose or shifting teeth

5. H E A L T H R I S K S A S S O C I A T E D
W I T H G U M D I S E A S E
If left untreated, gum disease can increase your risk of serious
health issues such as stroke, heart disease or diabetes.

6. Earliest stage of gum disease. Gums become inflamed and may
bleed while brushing. No permanent damage to gum tissue has
occurred yet.

7. Advanced stage of gum disease. Gums separate from teeth, forming
deep pockets that become infected. Over time, gum tissue and bone
are destroyed. Eventually, teeth can become loose and fall out.

8. P E R I O D O N T A L
T R E A T M E N T O P T I O N S
• Scaling and root planing. This is a
deep-cleaning, nonsurgical procedure
to remove plaque and tartar from
above and below the gum line. Rough
spots on the teeth are smoothed out
to remove bacteria.
• Arestin antibiotic treatments
which are deposited into your
infected gum tissue to kill harmful
bacteria and eliminate infection.
• Laser periodontal therapy to
reduce inflammation, remove infected
tissue and decrease levels of harmful
bacteria in your gum tissue.
• Surgical treatments. When gum
disease is in its most advanced
stages, surgery may be necessary to
treat the condition.

9. SCHEDULE A CHECKUP TODAY!
7 1 3 - 4 9 0 - 2 0 8 8