Periodontal (Gum) Care

Gum disease is one of the most common diseases that affect human beings, with over half of Americans experiencing some form of gum disease at some point in their lives. Gum disease starts as gingivitis, the most common form of the disease that involves red gums and bleeding, but can also go unnoticed by patients. If it is allowed to develop, it can turn into periodontal disease which, if left untreated, can result in tooth loss or jawbone loss. If you are experiencing any symptoms of gum disease, please let our team know and we will be happy to assess your situation and discuss your treatment options.

Gingivitis and periodontitis are both caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar, and the best prevention method is to maintain a thorough oral care routine and visit the dentist regularly to have hard-to-reach plaque removed. However, gum disease can be treated, and it’s important to seek treatment for it as soon as possible. Symptoms of gum disease include:

• Red, swollen, or very sensitive or tender gums
• Excessive bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Receding gum line
• Loose teeth or tooth loss
• Bad breath or foul taste in mouth

Peridontitis treatment requires a deep cleaning treatment that involves scaling and root planing. Scaling is done to remove plaque and tartar that has built up underneath the gum line. Root planing is then used to smooth the roots of the teeth and helps the gums reattach to the teeth. Once the gum pockets have been cleaned, we will often add a topical antibiotic called Arestin® to continue fighting bacteria and reduce pocket depth. Because the deep cleaning process is very detailed, it can require more than one appointment to complete, but it is worth it to restore the teeth and gums back to their original health.