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.
The Progression of Gum Disease
- 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 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 gum line 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.
Periodontal Therapy FAQ’s
What stage of periodontal disease is reversible?
The first sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, is bleeding gums after brushing or flossing. At this point, periodontal disease can still be reversed because the infection has not reached the bone or connective tissues that support the teeth in place.
Is periodontitis genetic?
Recent research leads dentists to believe that your genes may determine your susceptibility to periodontal disease. This means that it is possible that you could be born with gum inflammation. Rapid bone loss occurs around certain teeth in people with aggressive periodontitis. All of your teeth may be affected in extreme circumstances.
Is periodontitis contagious?
The infection that causes periodontal disease can be passed from person to person. In a study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, researchers found evidence that periodontitis, or gum disease, can be transmitted between individuals.
How long after periodontal cleaning can I eat?
For optimal results, avoid consuming anything other than water for 30 minutes following your dental cleaning. If you give your fluoride treatment 30 minutes to set in, it will form a complete seal around your teeth.
What can you not do after a periodontal treatment?
After the operation, your saliva may take on a slight pink hue. This is a sign of little bleeding, which may continue for up to 48 hours following the treatment. It’s important to take extra precautions to prevent more bleeding, such as avoiding hot foods and being very careful when rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours.