It is estimated that approximately half of adults 30 years or older suffer from periodontitis, the more advanced stage of gum disease, and they don’t even know about it. Gum disease is caused by a serious gum infection which can hurt the gum tissue and damage the jawbone. When bacteria is trapped below and above the gumline, infection develops. Gum disease begins without many symptoms, which is why it can go undetected for so long. That is why regular dental check-ups can help detect early signs of gum disease. By keeping up on your regular dental visits, gum disease can be caught and treated early. However, if you suffer from gum disease of any severity, Metropolitan Dental Arts has solutions for you!
Gingivitis
The earliest stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. The main symptom of gingivitis is red, swollen gums that bleed when you floss or brush your teeth. Other symptoms may include bad breath or receding, tender gums. At this stage, gum disease can usually be reversed with a professional cleaning and at-home oral care.
Periodontitis
When left untreated, gum disease will worsen and eventually turn into periodontitis. Periodontitis may require treatment such as scaling and root planing which is a deep cleaning above and below the gumline to remove infection. Symptoms of periodontitis include toothaches, receding gums, swelling, and bleeding.
Advanced Periodontitis
If a patient never treats their gum disease, the final stage is advanced periodontitis, which is an incurable condition that is characterized by loose teeth, tooth loss, and jaw bone damage. At this stage, your mouth may be severely compromised and require surgical care to get healthy again.
Treatment for Gum Disease
Depending on the stage of gum disease, there are several types of treatments that may be recommended. Scaling and root planing, professional cleaning, topical medications, and antibiotics are all common treatments for gingivitis. If gum disease is severe, surgery may be required to restore your gums and save your teeth. If you would like to be checked for gum disease in Brooklyn, NY, call our office! Your dentist can evaluate your gums and check for any signs of disease. If needed, treatment can be recommended to reverse your symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common symptoms include red, swollen, or tender gums; bleeding while brushing or flossing; persistent bad breath; and teeth that feel loose or appear “longer” due to receding gums.
Gingivitis (the early stage) can often be reversed with professional cleanings and improved at-home care. Periodontitis (the advanced stage) cannot be “cured” because lost bone does not regenerate, but it can be effectively managed and controlled with specialized treatment.
This is a deep cleaning procedure in which we remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline (scaling) and smooth the tooth roots (planing). This helps the gums reattach to the teeth and reduces harmful bacteria in periodontal pockets.
Yes. Research shows a strong link between periodontal disease and systemic health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Treating your gums is an important part of maintaining your overall health.
Patients managing gum disease often benefit from “periodontal maintenance” cleanings every 3 to 4 months to help prevent bacteria from recolonizing in deep pockets.
