An infection of the gums comes in one of two forms. The first is gingivitis, a disease wherein only your gum tissues are affected. The second is periodontitis, a more severe version wherein the disease spreads from the gums to the jawbone that supports your teeth. Either way, these are potentially devastating conditions that should be brought to our Issaquah dentist as soon as possible.
What Causes Gum Infections?
Gum disease comes about in largely the same way that you might develop a cavity. The bacteria in your mouth produces tartar that irritates your delicate gums, or acid that eats away at them. You’re more susceptible to gum infection if you do not practice proper oral hygiene, if you smoke, if you chew tobacco, or if you have a problem that weakens your immune system.
Symptoms of Gum Infections
When your gums are healthy, they should be pink, firm and fit snugly around the base of your teeth. Gums afflicted with gingivitis may be red, swell, feel tender or bleed easily when you brush or floss. Periodontitis may come with bad breath, pus, a change in the way your teeth fit together and gums pulling away from your teeth.
What to Do When Your Gums are Infected
Should you have any reason to believe that your gums are infected, see your dentist right away.
At Meadow Creek Dental, gum infections are a priority. It is important to see our Issaquah dentist as soon as you can.
Whether you walk in or call ahead, we make every effort to accommodate dental emergencies on the same day, whether you come to our Auburn or Issaquah dentist office.
Our offices are open 23-24 days every month (excluding Sundays) and our dentist is available on-call after hours for increased flexibility to address your needs.
