Gum Disease

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is an infection of the pink tissues that support your teeth. Your gums give your teeth stability, allowing them to function without shifting out of place. Damaged gums can’t effectively support your teeth. Also called periodontal disease, this gum infection can lead to serious oral health concerns, including tooth loss.

Early intervention is the best method to preserve your oral health. Dr. Klein uses the OraVitalⓇ System to safeguard your oral health. The earlier you seek periodontal treatment, the more likely you are to reverse the effects of gum disease.

Are there different types of gum disease?

The two main types of gum disease are:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. While you may experience redness, swelling, and bleeding gums, your teeth are still firmly in place. With early treatment, the effects of gingivitis are reversible. 

Periodontitis

Once gingivitis advances to periodontitis, the effects are no longer reversible, though they are treatable. Periodontitis means plaque has traveled beneath the gum line, forming small pockets. As the pockets grow, your gums no longer have a firm grip on your teeth.

The team at Eric Klein D.D.S. & Associates performs comprehensive periodontal exams to stage your gum disease.

What are the signs of gum disease?

Early signs of gum disease may not be noticeable at first. As the infection progresses and spreads, you may experience:

• Red, swollen, or purplish gums
• Bleeding gums
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Pain when chewing
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth
• Visible pockets of pus between your teeth and gums

As gum disease progresses, you may experience shifting teeth that eventually lead to permanent tooth loss.

What causes gum disease?

Many factors can increase your risk of gum disease, including:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Infrequent teeth cleanings
• Medications that cause dry mouth
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
• Genetics
• Immunosuppressant conditions
• Inadequate nutrition
• Tobacco use
• Chronic diseases (diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.)

When left untreated, gum disease can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and other potentially serious chronic conditions.

What are the treatments for gum disease?

There are two main treatments for gum disease:

Scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing is a minimally invasive treatment to clean out pockets of plaque beneath the gum line. The procedure involves inserting a scaling tool through the gum line to clear the pockets before smoothing the roots and attaching the gums to the teeth.

Gum grafting

If you have gum recession, the team may remove tissue from one area of your mouth (usually the roof) and place it over exposed areas.

Call Eric Klein D.D.S. & Associates today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about gum disease.