Gum disease is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation along your gum line. If left untreated, it can lead to gum recession, bone degeneration, and tooth loss. In more severe cases, it can also affect your overall physical health. Research has proven there is a correlation between your oral and physical health. When bacteria is left unchecked, not only will it progress into gum disease, but it may even lead to serious health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

''​​​​​​Although gum disease is treatable by a general practitioner, seeing a periodontist such as Dr. Baradarian will provide you with more focused and comprehensive care.''

Although the primary cause of gum disease is linked to poor oral hygiene and unaddressed plaque buildup, other causes include:

• Smoking and other tobacco use

• Genetics

• Hormonal changes

• Medications

• Bruxism (teeth grinding and jaw clenching)

Gum disease (periodontitis) is a progressive condition defined by the following phases.

• Gingivitis: As the earliest stage of gum disease, symptoms are generally mild and often reversible with professional treatment and a routine oral hygiene regimen. Symptoms include swollen gums, redness, and bleeding during brushing and flossing.

• Periodontitis: During this stage, bacteria overgrowth will penetrate the gum line, causing pockets of infection between and around the teeth, leading to gum recession, bad breath, and dental sensitivity. Once teeth and gums reach this stage, both soft and hard tissues are irreversibly impaired and will require routine professional periodontal surgical treatments to prevent further damage from occurring.

• Advanced Periodontitis: At this stage, bone degeneration is so severe that teeth will begin shifting and loosening, leading to severe dental misalignment, malocclusion, and mouth pain. Although some surgical and restorative treatments are available to repair damage, a tooth extraction may be necessary if damage is too severe.