What are the Signs?

• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth
  
  
• Red, swollen or tender gums
  
  
• Gums that have receded or shrunken away from your teeth
  
  
• Pus between your teeth when you press your gums with your finger
  
  
• Pain when chewing
  
  
• Calculus or tartar buildup
  
  
• Teeth that seem loose or change position
  
  
• Changes in your bite
  
  
• Changes in the way your partial dentures fit
  
  
• Bad breath or a chronic bad taste in the mouth
  
  
• Teeth that are overly sensitive to hot and cold
  

Additionally you may have periodontal disease and not have any of these symptoms. Most people don't experience pain with periodontal diseases.

Why is oral hygiene so important? Adults past the age of 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases, (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by daily tooth brushing and flossing.

Periodontal disease and tooth decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless film, which sticks to your teeth at the gumline. Plaque is constantly forming on our teeth. Thorough daily brushing and flossing can remove the plaque and help prevent gums disease. If not carefully removed by daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar).