Good oral health is incredibly important for your overall health and wellbeing, but did you know that one of the most commonly overlooked problems is gum disease? If you ignore it, it can lead to some big health issues.

At Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, our goal is to provide you with the best dental care possible. Our team is all about keeping your mouth in top shape. We do all sorts of things, from regular cleanings to making your smile look great.

One of our specialties is treating gum disease, and we are here to help you get your oral health back on track. Keep reading to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in preventing and treating gum disease.

Signs & Symptoms

Gum disease is something that many people experience and it’s quite serious. It happens when bacteria gather on the teeth and gums, causing swelling and infection. If you don’t take care of it, gum disease can bring about pain, discomfort, and even tooth loss in severe cases.

Check out these some signs and symptoms that you may be experiencing if you have gum disease:

Bleeding gums: Bleeding gums is a telltale sign of gum disease. If your gums bleed while brushing or flossing, it may mean that your gums are swollen and infected.
Red or swollen gums: Healthy gums should appear pink and firm, not red and puffy. If your gums look swollen, it could be a sign of gum disease.
Persistent bad breath: Having bad breath, or halitosis, is sometimes a sign of gum disease. The bacteria responsible for gum disease can create unpleasant-smelling substances that lead to bad breath.
Receding gums: If your gums start to pull away from the teeth, it could indicate advanced gum disease. Gingival recession is when the gums recede, which can cause tooth sensitivity and worse, even tooth loss.
Changes in bite or teeth alignment: As gum disease worsens, it may cause your gums to move back, resulting in alterations to how your teeth align or fit together.

If you observe any changes in your bite or how your teeth come together, it could be an indication of gum disease.

Progression: Phases of Gum Disease

Gum disease is not a one-size-fits-all condition. It can progress at different rates and affect individuals differently.

Gum disease can start off mild and get worse if not treated. Here are the stages:

Gingivitis: This is the initial stage of gum disease which happens due to poor oral hygiene. You might notice your gums are red, swollen, and bleed when you brush or floss. The good news is, gingivitis is usually reversible with proper care.
Early Periodontitis: If gingivitis isn’t addressed, it can progress to early periodontitis. During this phase, the infection starts to impact the surrounding bone and tissue of your teeth. As a result, your gums may begin to detach from your teeth, creating pockets. These pockets can trap more bacteria, making the condition worse. It’s important to catch it early to prevent further damage.
Moderate to Advanced Periodontitis: When gum disease reaches this stage, the damage becomes more severe. As your gumline and teeth continue to be affected, you may observe the pockets between them deepening, leading to potential tooth looseness. This is a critical stage where treatment is crucial to prevent tooth loss and further complications.
Chronic Periodontitis: If gum disease continues to progress without proper care, it can become chronic periodontitis. This is a more severe and long-term condition. The bone and tissue around your teeth deteriorate, causing teeth to shift or become loose. Tooth loss is a significant risk at this stage.

It’s important to remember that gum disease is preventable and treatable, especially in its early stages. Good oral hygiene practices, regular dental check-ups, and professional cleanings can help prevent gum disease or catch it.

Treatment Options

Good thing is that gum disease can be treated no matter the stage. Let’s take a look at some common treatment choices for gum disease:

Scaling and root planing: a thorough cleaning procedure that eliminates plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline.
Antibiotics: Your dentist might prescribe antibiotics to help combat the infection and lessen inflammation.
Gum surgery: In more severe cases, your dentist may recommend gum surgery to remove infected tissue and repair damaged bone.
Laser therapy: This non-invasive treatment uses a laser to remove both plaque and tartar from the gums and promote healing.
Dental implants: If your teeth have been lost because of gum disease, your dentist might recommend dental implants as a replacement choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dealing with gum disease comes with a lot of questions and concerns. Here are some commonly asked questions about gum disease treatment:

How do I know if I have gum disease?

The most common signs and symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen gums; bleeding while brushing or flossing; persistent bad breath; receding gums; and loose teeth.

Is gum disease contagious?

No. Gum disease isn’t something you can catch from someone else. However, certain bacteria that play a role in causing gum disease can be passed through saliva. That’s why it’s important to take good care of your teeth and avoid sharing personal items like toothbrushes or utensils.

While practicing good oral hygiene at home is vital in prevention and management of gum disease, it cannot fully treat the disease. It’s important to see a dentist for professional treatment.

How often should I go to the dentist for a professional dental cleaning?

It is recommended to have a professional dental cleaning every six months to remove plaque and tartar buildup and prevent gum disease.

Will my insurance cover the cost of gum disease treatment?

Every insurance plan is different, so it’s best to check with your provider. However, most dental insurance plans do cover some or all of the cost of gum disease treatment.

Is gum disease reversible?

Depending on the severity, gum disease can be reversed with proper treatment and improved oral hygiene habits. However, advanced cases may require ongoing maintenance to manage the disease.

Schedule an Appointment With Us!

If you are experiencing any signs of gum disease or have concerns about your oral health, contact Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry to schedule an appointment for a gum disease assessment. We’ll collaborate with you to create a personalized treatment plan to keep your gums healthy and prevent further progression of the disease.

Don’t wait until it’s too late – take the first step towards healthier gums today! So, if you have any questions or concerns about gum disease, give us a call or schedule an appointment online.