Gum Disease Plantation FL | Gingivitis

Gum disease is a growing health epidemic in the United States. A serious and progressive bacterial infection of the gums, gum disease has been linked to a range of complex systemic health conditions. Catching gum disease before it begins to spread can prevent complex complications.

Routine dental checkups can help control the development and spread of gum disease. Dr. Uttma Dham offers thorough periodontal screenings at all oral health exams. Dr. Dham works closely with our in-house periodontist, Dr. Darren Pike. Dr. Pike helps patients with complex gum disease rebuild their oral health.

The Progression of Gum Disease

gum disease progression plantation fl

Gingivitis- Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. Most patients will have gingivitis at some point in their lives. Patients may notice bleeding of the gums, swelling, or light sensitivity. Gum disease is best treated if caught when still in the gingivitis stage. Most patients are able to control the spread of bacteria at this stage with improved at home oral hygiene and thorough dental cleanings. Gingivitis can be controlled and further damage can be prevented. Dr. Dham or Dr. Pike can help patients improve their brushing and flossing techniques and make personalized recommendations of additional products for use such as anti-bacterial mouthwash.
Gum Disease- Left untreated, bacteria continue to spread causing damage to the gums. Bacteria begin to create deep pockets in the gums causing the gumline to pull away from the surface of the teeth. Gum recession is common and teeth may begin to loosen or shift. Scaling and root planning is a deep penetrative cleaning procedure commonly used to treat gum disease at this stage. Dr. Dham also offers laser therapy for the treatment of gum disease. High tech lasers actually clean the gums and promote natural healing for a faster recovery.
Periodontitis- Periodontist is the final stage of gum disease. At this point, the damage has been done to the structure of the teeth, bone, and gums. Patients begin to experience bone loss, facial sagging, and jaw recession. Patients with periodontitis may require gum surgery, bone grafting or dental implants to replace missing teeth. As part of Westside Dental Center’s comprehensive services, we offer patients in-house periodontal services. Our periodontist Dr. Darren Pike brings years of experience helping patients restore their oral health after gum disease.

Gum disease often goes undiagnosed until the gums begin to bleed. Bleeding gums are the most noticeable indication of gum disease, however, by the time the gums are bleeding, the bacteria has already begun to spread. Visting the dentist twice a year can help Dr. Dham catch gum disease before it begins to spread. If you notice any changes in your oral health be sure to contact your Westside Dental Center dentist.

Signs & Symptoms of Gum Disease

Bleeding gums
Swollen or tender gums
Sores or patches on gums
Receding gum line
Loose teeth
Tooth sensitivity
Change in fit of oral appliance
Tooth loss

Many patients ignore the signs of gum disease, allowing bacteria to multiply and spread. Gum disease is directly correlated to a range of oral and systemic health concerns. Treating gum disease can help reduce a patients risk of developing serious medical conditions.

Gum disease increases the risk of:

Gum recession
Tooth loss
Bone deterioration
Heart attack
Stroke
Cardiovascular disease
Inflammation

Treatment for gum disease will depend on the progression of the bacterial infection. Dr. Dham provides a thorough analysis of the teeth, gums, and jaw so that she may address any secondary oral health concerns to fully restore oral health. Treatment plans are tailored to treat underlying oral health concerns and to clean the gums of bacteria so they may begin to heal.

Scaling & root planing- For some patients, a thorough dental cleaning, and improved at-home oral hygiene routine are enough to control harmful bacteria. Dr. Dham and Dr. Pike will make personalized product recommendations for your oral health.
Laser Dentistry- Dr. Dham provides laser therapy for the treatment of moderate gum disease. Laser therapy uses state of the art soft tissue lasers to gently remove harmful bacteria from the deep pockets formed in the gumline. Laser therapy actually promotes the body’s natural healing response. For many patients, laser therapy is an effective alternative to invasive gum surgery. Laser therapy reduces swelling and bleeding and eliminates the need for painful sutures.

In-House Periodontist Plantation, FL

Some patients may require gum surgery, or bone grafting to fully restore their smiles. For patients that require more complex treatment, Dr. Dham works with our in-house Westside Dental Center periodontist Dr. Darren Pike.

Left untreated, gum disease commonly leads to loss of bone structure, gum recession, and tooth loss. Dr. Pike helps patients address advanced gum disease that has begun to cause damage to the foundation of the smile.

Gum Surgery- Gum surgery may be necessary for patients with advanced gum disease. Gum surgery can reshape a receding gum line for a healthier, more aesthetic looking smile.
Bone Grafting- For patients who have experienced bone loss due to gum disease or tooth loss, Dr. Pike may recommend a bone graft. Bone grafts help to rebuild the structure of the upper or lower jaw. Once the graft heals, dental implants can usually be placed to support a denture or bridge.