The clinical name for gum disease is periodontal disease, and basically it’s an inflammation of the gums that leads to permanent, irreversible damage if it’s left untreated. Patients know that dental plaque builds up on their teeth because they can see it. However what many people don’t know is that plaque also builds up in the ‘pockets’ hidden below your gum line, between your teeth and gums.
This hidden plaque can only be removed with professional dental care. When it’s left to build up, bacteria grows and starts to cause inflammation. This early stage of inflammation is called gingivitis, and it is reversible if you receive professional dental care. However, if left untreated, the bacteria start to eat away at the ligaments that connect your teeth and gums. Once these ligaments are broken, they can never be repaired.
That’s why gum disease often leads to gum recession, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. In fact, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss, with 75% of all tooth loss linked to gum disease.