How gum disease can lead to tooth loss and how to stop it?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most common yet preventable dental issues facing Americans today. What begins as mild inflammation of the gums can quickly escalate into a serious condition that threatens your oral health. Left untreated, gum disease can destroy the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. Understanding how gum disease progresses and what you can do to stop it is the first step toward protecting your smile. What causes gum disease? Gum disease starts with plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. Tartar can only be removed by a dental professional, and its presence can lead to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis causes red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. While this stage is reversible, if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. At this ad...