Periodontal and Implant Dentistry

Gum disease is either gingivitis or periodontitis. Gingivitis occurs when bacteria collect in the very tiny pockets at the gum line, causing inflammation. The most common symptoms are bleeding when teeth are brushed and persistent bad breath. Gingivitis accounts for about 70% of gum disease, and periodontitis makes up the other 30%.

If gingivitis goes untreated, the inflammation can invade connective tissue and even bone, causing periodontitis.

The symptoms of periodontitis include:

● Receding gums.

● Visible pockets of inflammation along the gum line.

● Gum pain.

● Sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures.

Proper dental hygiene can go a long way toward preventing gum disease. Most of us know the basics:

● Brush your teeth at least twice a day, for two minutes and floss at least once.

● Use a mouth rinse for more protection from plaque which can help improve gingivitis.

● Smoking increases the danger of gum disease by damaging gum tissue and increasing inflammation. If you smoke, preventing gum disease is one more very good reason to try to quit.

Brushing, flossing, and using a mouth rinse are the means to cure gum disease. But sometimes it’s too late and not enough. We are here to help by providing gentle solutions from highly-trained specialists that treat you and your unique condition.

There are actually quite a few things to watch out for if you want to avoid the onset of receding gums. First, prevent the accumulation of plaque at the gum line by exercising proper oral hygiene techniques that we demonstrate in our office. Otherwise, the bacteria in the plaque can release toxic substances that can break down gum tissue and bone support around the teeth.

Second, if your teeth are crooked or fillings are not placed in such a way to balance your bite, the forces being placed on the teeth can cause receding gums as they try to compensate. Studies have shown that an improper bite can increase the amount of bone loss around the teeth.

Third, excessive pressure from grinding or clenching your teeth can sometimes cause gums to recede. Chronic nighttime teeth grinders often use a mouthguard to prevent this kind of abrasive force.

Fourth, brushing your teeth too hard or in the wrong direction can sometimes lead to receding gums. On the flip side, if you don’t brush your teeth or floss, this can lead to decay and poor gum health. This process can be reversed or halted by having a soft tissue grafting procedure (see soft tissue graft).

Finally, your overall stress, health, and sleeping habits can also be contributing factors to gum recession.

As the infection progresses, more bone and tissue are destroyed. The most severe form of the disease includes extensive bone and tissue loss. Teeth often become loose and may drift from their original position.