Gum infection can seriously affect your overall health. Below are a few questions to consider when consulting with your dentist:

What causes a gum infection?

When starches and sugars in food come into contact with normal bacteria in your mouth, they can turn into plaque. If plaque is left untreated, it can harden under the gum line and turn into tartar. This can cause gingivitis (gum inflammation) near the base of your teeth.

Can a gum infection be treated?

Gingivitis can usually be reversed with professional dental treatment and good hygiene (brushing and flossing) at home.

What happens if I don’t see a dentist about my inflamed gums?

If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to pockets between your gums and teeth. This can become a serious deeper infection, periodontitis, that reaches the bone. You could have loose teeth, and possibly tooth loss. In a worst-case scenario, this infection can enter the bloodstream and cause problems in other parts of the body.

How do I know I have a gum infection?

Some of the symptoms of gum infections can include swelling and bleeding gums, bad breath that does not go away, receding gums, puss secreting from gums, loose teeth, and a change in your bite.

When should I schedule an appointment if I think I have a gum infection?

If you are experiencing pain due to gum infection, please do not ignore it. Gum infections can go from bad to worse very quickly. You need to be treated as soon as possible to save your teeth and gums. Contact your functional dentist in Los Angeles, CA to make an appointment today.