Cosmetic Dentistry Guide

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is the name for a range of oral health problems ranging from inflammation of the gums ( gingivitis ) to the more serious periodontitis (where gums pull away from the teeth and serious infection can result). Many people may have the early signs of gum disease and not even realize it! Symptoms like persistent bad breath, swollen gums, gums that bleed when flossing, sensitive teeth or painful spots on the gums when chewing can all be early signs of gum disease. It is well established that gum disease can be devastating to the mouth and is the leading cause of adult tooth loss and other oral problems. What is less well-known is that gum disease can also have negative impact on other parts of the body. The mouth is not an isolated ecosystem, but an integral part of the immune system. The mouth is intimately connected to many other parts of the body and a bacterial imbalance or gum disease in the mouth can create immune problems and in...