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Joplin Dental
Care
2650 East 32nd Street Suite 220
Joplin, Missouri 64804
417 781-6466
Cassville
Dental Care
54 South Main Street
Cassville, MO 65625
417 847-1443
Toll free: 888-887-3968
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The American Dental Association says that over 75-80% of all adults have or will have some form of gum disease
Gum disease, or more correctly called "periodontal disease", is a bacterial infection in the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It can be divided into several categories.
The first stage is called "gingivitis" and is characterized by gum tissue that is red, puffy, and bleeds easily when touched with a toothbrush, floss or dental instrument.
The second, third, and fourth stages are initial, moderate, and advanced "periodontal disease", respectively. These stages are different from gingivitis because the infection has destroyed the bone supporting the teeth, causing eventual tooth loss. The treatment is more involved at these stages, usually consisting of a special cleaning with anesthesia and sometimes gum surgery.
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