🦷 Healthy Teeth Need Healthy Gums

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. It usually starts with gum infection and irritation, but if left untreated, it can spread deeper—affecting the bone that supports your teeth.

Gum disease can range from mild gingivitis to advanced periodontitis, which requires more extensive treatment.

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🚨 Why You Should Never Ignore Gum Disease

Gum problems don’t go away on their own. They usually start small but worsen over time.

Watch for these early warning signs:

• 🔴 Red, irritated gums
• 😖 Swollen or painful gums
• 📉 Receding gums
• 🦷 Shaky or loose teeth
• 😷 Persistent bad breath
• 🟡 Pus around the gums

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🔬 How Gum Disease Progresses

Just like tooth decay, gum disease is progressive. It starts on the surface and moves deeper:

Stage	Condition	Pocket Depth
✅ Healthy Gums	No infection, firm pink gums	0 mm
⚠️ Stage 1: Gingivitis	Mild inflammation, reversible	2–3 mm
⚠️ Stage 2: Moderate Periodontitis	Gums begin to recede, mild bone loss	4–5 mm
🚨 Stage 3: Advanced Periodontitis	Severe bone loss, loose teeth	6–10 mm

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🛠️ Treatment Options for Gum Disease

The earlier you treat it, the simpler and more effective the treatment:

• Scaling & Polishing
  Removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
• Root Planing (Curettage)
  Deep cleaning of tooth roots to eliminate bacteria and promote healing.
• Flap Surgery
  Gums are lifted back for deep cleaning and stitched to fit snugly around the teeth.
• Gingival Grafts (Gum Grafting)
  Replaces lost gum tissue to cover exposed roots and protect teeth.
• Bone Grafts
  Restores bone loss caused by advanced infection.

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🧼 Prevention is Better Than Cure

Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings can prevent gum disease or catch it early. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and maintaining oral hygiene are your best defenses.

Don’t wait for pain to take action—healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile.