WatchGum Disease

How gum disease develops, and how we stop it

Gum disease affects more than three out of four adults over 35 in some form, and most of them don't realize it until it has already taken hold. It starts quietly, with plaque hardening into tartar along the gumline and inflammation setting in, and over time the bacteria responsible begin attacking the bone anchoring your teeth. Left untreated, it stands as the leading cause of tooth loss among adults in the United States.

This video traces that path from start to finish, beginning with gingivitis (red, swollen gums that bleed easily) and moving through the more advanced stages where pockets open up between the teeth and gums. Watch also for chronic bad breath, gums that seem to be pulling away from the teeth, and teeth that feel loose or have shifted position.

One point matters more than any other: gingivitis can be reversed. Once it advances into full periodontal disease, treatment can control the damage but not undo it, which is exactly why a regular checkup that catches it early is so valuable. Treatment typically opens with a deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing, clearing bacteria out from below the gumline.

From there, ongoing periodontal maintenance visits keep the disease from returning. Any of these warning signs is reason enough to schedule an evaluation at Dr. Raffi General & Implant Dentistry: the earlier we step in, the more of your natural smile stays intact.

Read the video transcript