Gum (Periodontal) Disease

Gum, or periodontal, diseases are infections of the structures around your teeth such as your gums and bone. You might also hear it referred to as gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of periodontal disease. In more severe forms of the disease, an infection can invade deeper into the tissue and destroy bone surrounding the teeth.

Steps:

There are different levels of treatment for gum disease based on the severity.

  1. If it has been some time since your last cleaning or there is excessive inflammation of the gums, your hygienist will first clean the majority of the plaque to reduce inflammation. Then, during a second visit 2 weeks later, she will do a fine cleaning and check how your gum tissue is healing. You will usually be placed on a normal cleaning schedule of every 6 months after this.
  2. If the infection reaches down the side of the teeth, into the bone, we recommend a deep cleaning or scaling. This is usually done in two visits (left side then right side). We will then schedule a follow-up visit with your hygienist 6 weeks after your last deep cleaning to check your healing. Your hygienist will then determine the type of follow up care, either a return to a normal cleaning schedule or increased cleaning schedule to maintain a level of health.
  3. If the infection is severe, we may work together with a specialist to find the treatment plan that’s best for you.

Gum disease for some may be a lifelong treatment like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Eating and chewing:

If you are numbed for the procedure, take care not to bite your lips or cheek and a softer diet is recommended for a few days

Soreness and sensitivity:

If your gums are sore, you can rinse with warm salt water for some relief. Your gums might be sore for several days, rinsing and a mild anti-inflammatory such as Advil can help.

Maintenance:

Your hygienist will let you know if you need any ongoing care, typically depending on the severity and how you’re healing. Remember that it’s best to stay on top of your mouth care if you have a history of gum disease. See our Good Oral Hygiene page for suggestions.

 

healthy-gums

Healthy Gums

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Gum Disease

We are dedicated to giving each of our patients the beautiful, healthy smile they deserve!

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