Gum Disease

Gum diseases (sometimes called periodontal or gingival diseases) are infections that harm the gum and bone that 


hold teeth in place. When plaque stays on your teeth too long, it forms a hard, harmful covering, called tartar, that 


brushing doesn’t clean. The longer the plaque and tartar stay on your teeth, the more damage they cause. Your gums 


may become red, swollen and bleed easily. This is called gingivitis.

If gingivitis is not treated, over time it can make your gums pull away from your teeth and form pockets that can get 


infected. This is called periodontitis. If not treated, this infection can ruin the bones, gums and tissue that support your 


teeth. In time, it can cause loose teeth that your dentist may have to remove.