08/17/2026
Not All Gum Problems Are Caused by "Bad Hygiene"
When people think about gum disease they usually think of plaque, tartar buildup and bleeding gums caused by bacteria. And while that's often true... sometimes the real problem is something completely different.
This case is a perfect example. The tooth in this photo had a crown placed that was too bulky and over contoured near the gum line. Biologically, it created a major problem: trapped bacteria and food, difficult/impossible to clean properly, gums stayed chronically inflamed, deep persistent periodontal pockets developed, and ensuing bone loss.
In this case, the issue wasn't simply bacteria alone - it was the anatomy of the restoration creating an environment where inflammation thrived.
As periodontists, we don't just treat gums; we investigate why the gums are breaking down in the first place. Healthy dentistry isn't about how teeth look. It's about creating a design that the gums and bone can live long-term success.
