A routine dental checkup by our Torrance dentist can help detect the early and advanced stages of periodontal disease. This disease is also commonly known as gum disease, and without treatment it can eventually lead to tooth decay and loss. Early symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen gums that tend to bleed during brushing. This first stage of periodontal disease is known as gingivitis. It will progress into the next stage, periodontitis, if it is not treated by our Torrance 90504 periodontist. Early detection helps to make treatment easier and also decreases the risk of further damage being done to your teeth and gums.
Due to the buildup of plaque and tartar on your teeth, periodontitis causes the gum line to pull away from the teeth. The receded sections of your gums become infected, causing pockets to form that hold the infection. Just as with gingivitis, the gums are typically inflamed and tend to bleed easily. Advanced periodontitis destroys the bone tissue as the gum line recedes, causing teeth to become loose and eventually fall out. In addition to inflicting serious damage to your smile, tooth loss can also cause facial deformities.