Healthy Gums for Healthy Life 

Healthy gums are more important than most people realize. They can affect more than your oral health. Gum disease typically starts as gingivitis, but an estimated half of Americans ages 30 and older (64 million) are dealing with a more advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis.

Periodontal gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss, but it can also increase your risk factor for several health issues including heart disease and stroke.

Common Symptoms of Gum Disease 

Gum disease symptoms are not always noticeable. Some people may not even realize they have a problem until their dental visit. Other symptoms are more noticeable, and here is a brief list of the more common ones.

• Swollen/red gums
• Tender gums
• Loose teeth
• Toothaches
• Receding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Bleeding from the gums during brushing

The Stages of Periodontal Disease 

Stage 1 – Gingivitis 

Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. The inflammation is caused by bacteria, and we recommend you make an immediate appointment. A general dentist, like Dr. Lu or Dr. Q, is usually equipped to treat the gum disease when it’s in the early gingivitis stage.

Stage 2 – Periodontitis 

Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis disease. Periodontitis is diagnosed when your gums begin separating away from your teeth, leading to infected pockets. The bacteria in your gums combined with your body’s response to the infection can cause the supporting tissue and bone to begin eroding. Tooth loss usually follows, and you want to seek periodontal treatment at this stage.

How can I be sure I have gum disease? 

The symptoms listed above do not guarantee you have or are on your way towards developing periodontal disease. However, catching the gum disease early is crucial in preventing tooth loss and other health issues. We strongly recommend you bring any gum issues to our attention. Our highly experienced team of dental professionals can quickly assess your situation and recommend the best treatment solutions.

Periodontal Treatments 

Osseous Surgery 

Osseous, gingivectomy, or pocket reduction surgery refers to the procedures geared at gaining access to the infected tooth roots where disease-causing bacteria and tartar are removed. The solution reduces bacterial spread, preventing bone loss. It can enhance your smile and start you on your way to a more effective home hygiene routine.

Ridge Augmentation 

Following a tooth extraction, a ridge augmentation procedure often follows. It helps to recreate the natural contour of your gums and jaw. It’s not necessary to rebuild the original width and height of your alveolar ridge. It’s the bone surrounding the tooth roots, but it might be required to fit a dental implant or for aesthetic purposes.

Scaling and Root Planing 

One of the most common non-invasive periodontal treatment methods, scaling and root planing, treats gum disease before it becomes severe. Similar to flossing, a special dental tool is used to reach areas normal brushing misses. Bacteria and tartar are removed below the gum line, preventing the disease from progressing to the next stage.

Guided Bone and Tissue Regeneration 

Guided regeneration helps you regain a healthy gum line and bone structure. Our dental specialists surgically place barrier membranes under your gums to facilitate healthy tissue regrowth and bone regeneration.

Sinus Lift/Augmentation 

A sinus lift or augmentation procedure raises the sinus floor, allowing new bones to form in your upper jaw. The procedure may include adding bone to the jaw or maxillary sinuses to repair any damage caused by periodontal disease. The procedure is often done to prepare for the placement of implants.

Frenectomy 

When the small tissue fold in your mouth connecting your lower gums to the bottom of your tongue or your upper gums to the upper lip is abnormally prominent, a frenectomy procedure may be necessary. The tissues can harm your teeth, gums, and the supporting bone structure. The surgery only takes around 15 minutes, providing you with healthier teeth and gums.

Schedule A Consultation

Please contact our team today if you have questions about your gum health. 

Schedule A Consultation