What to Do When You Think You Have Gum Disease

Gum disease is extremely common in the United States, with half of adults 30 and older dealing with some form of it. However common it may be, this disease is very treatable and preventable if you have the proper understanding. Dr. Neelima Ravi, dentists at Oceanside Family Dental in Hampton, NH, want to educate their patients about gum disease and the best ways to treat it.

What is gum disease?

Your teeth aren’t the only structures in your mouth affected by bacteria. Your gums are also subject to problems associated with the buildup of bacterial colonies, which form a clear and sticky film called plaque. If plaque is left to harden – a process that only takes about 24 hours – it becomes tartar. This bacteria-filled material adheres itself to the teeth and begins wearing away the gum tissue. Gum disease is progressive; in its milder form, it’s known as gingivitis. The more advanced gum disease seen by your Hampton dentist is called periodontitis.