What gum disease is
Gum disease is inflammation of the gum tissue that surrounds and protects your teeth. It starts with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria on the teeth. When plaque builds up, it inflames the gums and can progress into an infection. The early stage is gingivitis. If it goes untreated, it can advance to periodontitis, which damages the bone that holds the teeth in place.
Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. It has also been linked with other health problems, including heart disease, respiratory disease, rheumatoid arthritis and difficulty controlling blood sugar in diabetes. A CDC study found that nearly half of U.S. adults aged 30 and older have some form of gum disease. Smokers face a higher risk.
Signs to watch for
Gum disease may cause little or no pain, so you can have it without knowing. Healthy gums are light pink and fit snugly around the teeth. These are signs listed by the American Dental Association:
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Gums that pull away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Loose or shifting permanent teeth
- A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite
- A change in the fit of partial dentures
- Pus along the gumline
How we treat it
The earlier we find gum disease, the less invasive the treatment. Options include:
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning). Scaling removes tartar and bacteria from the teeth and below the gumline. Root planing smooths the root surfaces to discourage new buildup and help the gums reattach. It is done as an outpatient treatment, sometimes in more than one visit, and we use a local anesthetic when you need it.
- Medication. Topical or oral antibiotics can help control infection.
- Advanced care. For more severe cases, treatments such as pocket reduction (flap) surgery, bone grafting, guided tissue regeneration, soft tissue grafts or tissue-stimulating proteins may be recommended.
After a deep cleaning
Your gums may bleed or feel sore, and your teeth may be sensitive, for a few days. Most people recover within one to two weeks. We will give you aftercare instructions, which may include rinses, soft foods and a short pause in flossing while your gums heal. Many people with gum disease need ongoing care, such as periodic deep cleanings alongside regular exams. Once gum disease starts, it can come back, so keeping up with checkups and brushing and flossing is important.
Preventing gum disease
- Brush for two minutes at least twice a day, and floss at least once a day.
- Have your teeth professionally cleaned, usually every six to twelve months. You may need more frequent visits if you smoke, have dry mouth or take certain medications.
- Do not wait if you notice any of the signs above.
During your exam we measure gum pockets as part of our periodontal probing. See also our cleanings and exams.
Bleeding, swollen gums, loose teeth or persistent bad breath need a professional look. Call us at (781) 289-3331.
Common questions
Can gum disease be cured?
Mild to moderate gum disease (gingivitis) is reversible when treated before it causes severe damage. Periodontitis, the advanced stage, cannot be reversed, but treatment can stop it from getting worse.
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
We use numbing medicine to keep you comfortable. Afterward your gums may feel sore or tender, which usually fades within a few days.
How long does it take?
Scaling and root planing usually take one to two hours. We may split it into more than one visit and treat one part of the mouth at a time.
Can I treat gum disease at home?
Special tools and mouthwashes can help, but they do not replace professional cleanings. We have tools and training that home products do not.
What happens if gum disease is left untreated?
The infection can spread and destroy more of the gums, the bone and the jaw, which leads to loose teeth and tooth loss.