Gingivitis, also known as gum inflammation, is a common but often damaging dental problem. Gum inflammation is an early form of periodontitis or gum disease. Patients who develop gum disease often experience painful and bleeding gums, as well as gum sensitivity. Over time, periodontitis can lead to a variety of oral and systemic health issues that may result in eventual tooth loss.
At Lighthouse Family Dentistry, we offer multiple options for periodontal disease treatment to patients in Annapolis, MD. With gum disease treatment, patients can improve their oral health and restore their smiles.
Signs of Gum Inflammation and Infection
There are several symptoms of gingivitis and periodontitis, including:
- Bleeding gums
- Swollen and irritated gums
- Gum recession
- Bad breath (Halitosis)
- Tender and sensitive gums
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- Loose or missing teeth
Please contact our Annapolis office if you have noticed any of these problems. We want to help you address your gum inflammation before it develops and becomes gum disease. The sooner we can begin treating any signs of gum disease, the easier it is to reverse and the less likely it is to cause permanent damage.
Stages of Gum Disease
There are multiple stages of gum disease. The disease progresses very quickly so it is important to know the symptoms so we can begin treatment as soon as possible.
Gingivitis– The first stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. Common signs and symptoms of gingivitis include bleeding gums while brushing, gum redness, and minor inflammation. Since gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease it is the easiest to treat. A thorough dental cleaning and an increase in oral hygiene can reverse gingivitis and restore your oral health.
Slight Periodontitis– The second stage of periodontitis is called slight periodontitis. Once patients reach this stage of the disease, bacteria begin to gather around teeth and form pockets in the gumline. The pockets store more bacteria and it begins to infect the tooth root and bone. Patients’ gums may appear red and inflamed and they may also experience mild tenderness and discomfort.
Moderate Periodontitis– The third stage of periodontitis is known as moderate periodontitis. During this stage gums begin to pull away from the teeth and teeth begin to decay. Teeth may feel loose as well. Once the disease has reached this point treatment cannot reverse the damage, however, it is recommended to stop the infection from progressing further.
Advanced Periodontitis– The last and most severe stage of periodontitis is called advanced periodontitis. Once patients have reached this stage bone loss has begun and they are at risk for potential tooth loss. The infection has reached the jawbone and eating may be painful. Damage is irreversible however treatment can help to protect your teeth and restore your gum and bone health.
How to Treat Gum Disease in Annapolis, MD
There are various ways to prevent gum inflammation from turning into gum disease. The best way to treat gum disease is by increasing your oral care and brushing and flossing twice daily, however, there are multiple treatment options available depending on patient needs and the severity of the infection. Continue reading to learn more about the options we offer in our office to treat periodontitis.
- Antibiotics and Antibacterial Rinses: We may prescribe antibiotics and antibacterial rinses for patients with gingivitis. These treatments help minimize and remove bacteria in the mouth and help prevent periodontitis.
- Scaling and Root Planing: These deep-cleaning treatments benefit patients exhibiting more moderate symptoms of gum inflammation. We remove plaque and tartar from and beneath the gums using a special dental tool. We also smooth down the tooth roots to ensure they are attached to the gums.
- Gum Grafting: For patients with gum recession, or those who have had infected gum tissue removed, we recommend gum grafting. We may suture tissue from another part of the mouth, often the roof of the mouth, to secure the gum tissue in place. Gum grafting restores healthy tissue to the gums helping the gums grow and become healthy.
Request a Periodontal Disease Treatment Consultation Today
Do you need to treat your gum problems? Contact our professional dental team at 410-324-7287. You can also schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Meiser on our website. Please let us know if you have any current concerns or questions about your treatment options. We will be glad to assist you.