Gum Disease Specialist

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is a serious health problem caused by a bacterial infection. It occurs when food and plaque become trapped between your teeth and gums, causing them to swell and recede.

Plaque is a thin film of bacteria that hardens over time, turning into tartar. If the plaque extends below your gum line, it triggers inflammation, and in turn, gum disease. When left untreated, gum disease causes your teeth to become loose and unstable. If the infection continues, extractions may be necessary.

Are there different types of gum disease?

There are several types of gum disease, but gingivitis and periodontitis account for the majority of infections.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis causes your gums to become red, puffy, and irritated. Early on, gingivitis presents few obvious symptoms. As it progresses, you might notice that your gums bleed whenever you brush or floss.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a more serious infection. Gingivitis can turn into periodontitis if plaque accumulates beneath your gum line. Over time, periodontitis damages your teeth and bones. If caught early, it’s possible to treat, preventing further damage.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

The symptoms of gum disease vary and depend on the severity of the infection. Telltale signs of gum disease include:

• Bad breath
• Gums that bleed
• Loose teeth
• Teeth that change position
• Pain when chewing
• Foul taste in your mouth

As gum disease gets worse, you might also experience inflammation or swelling throughout your body.

How is gum disease diagnosed?

To diagnose gum disease, Dr. Sierra conducts an oral exam, reviews your oral health history, and asks about your lifestyle and symptoms. He also measures the pockets of your gums using a tiny ruler called a probe. Large gum pockets indicate the presence of gum disease.

If these measures don’t provide enough information, he might also order digital X-rays to get a closer look at your tooth roots and jawbone.

How is gum disease treated?

Whenever possible, Dr. Sierra treats gum disease by promoting good oral hygiene. If you only have gingivitis, you can prevent further damage by brushing your teeth twice-a-day, flossing once each day, and visiting Boca Mission Bay Dentistry every six months for a professional exam and cleaning.

If you have periodontitis, a more invasive treatment like scaling and root planing may be necessary. During scaling and root planing, Dr. Sierra removes plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth. This smooths the root surfaces and assists your gums in healing. Over time your gum pockets shrink and the inflammation subsides.

To explore your treatment options for gum disease, schedule an appointment at Boca Mission Bay Dentistry. Call the office and speak with a friendly staff member or book a consultation online today.