The gums, ligaments, and bone which surround the teeth form the foundation for your teeth. All structures are also referred to as the periodontium. When the periodontium is not healthy, it jeopardizes the teeth just as a bad foundation would threaten the stability of a house. Signs of unhealthy periodontium include:

 

• Gums that are red and bleed easily

• Persistent bad breath

• Gums that are pulled away from the tooth

• Loose teeth

• Changes in the position or bite of the teeth

 

Any of the above may be a sign of a problem. With proper gum treatments, however, it may be possible to return gum tissue to a healthy state. If you're having a problem, come in and see us so we can treat it right away. The treatment usually involves a deep cleaning or root planning, done under a local anesthetic, along with local antibiotic agents. If the gum disease gets too severe, it may need to be treated through suregery or extraction. This is why it is important to have it treated at the first sign of a problem.