Oral Disease -
Gingivitis...How Dr. Savory Can Help
Gingivitis
is the most common periodontal disease, affecting 90% of the population,
including our local Boulder area community. It is an infection of the
gums caused by bacteria that form plaque. This bacteria is related to
that which causes strep throat and other oral infections.
In small amounts (when it is newly formed), plaque is invisible and
relatively harmless. But when left to accumulate, it increases in volume
and the proportion of harmful bacteria grows.
These bacteria release toxins that result in inflammation of the gum
tissue. Eventually, the plaque hardens and forms hard deposits called
calculus or tartar.
If not properly treated, gingivitis may progress to periodontitis, a
periodontal disease in which there is loss of the bone that supports the
teeth.
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