Gingivitis

Periodontist in St. Louis, Missouri

Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease, characterized by inflammation and irritation of the gingiva, the part of the gum around the base of the teeth. It’s primarily caused by the buildup of plaque—a sticky, colorless film of bacteria—on your teeth. If not properly managed, gingivitis can lead to more severe gum disease, including periodontitis.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease and is completely reversible with professional treatment and good daily home care. Gingivitis causes the gums to become red, swollen and bleed easily. If gingivitis is left untreated, the infection can spread from the gums to the bone. This process begins to destroy the bone that supports the teeth.

Gingivitis

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Symptoms of Gingivitis

Recognizing the symptoms of gingivitis early can prevent progression to more serious conditions. Common signs include:

  • Red, Swollen Gums: Gums that are inflamed, red, and puffy.
  • Bleeding Gums: Especially when brushing or flossing.
  • Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.
  • Tenderness: Discomfort or sensitivity in the gums.

Causes and Risk Factors

Gingivitis is primarily caused by poor oral hygiene that encourages plaque buildup on teeth, leading to inflammation of the surrounding gum tissues. Risk factors include:

  • Smoking or Chewing Tobacco: Tobacco use can significantly increase your risk.
  • Poor Nutrition: Deficiencies in essential nutrients, especially vitamin C.
  • Medical Conditions: Certain conditions and medications can affect gum health.
  • Poor Dental Care: Inconsistent brushing and flossing.

Diagnosing Gingivitis

Diagnosis is usually made through a dental examination. Your periodontist will evaluate the condition of your gums, check for inflammation, and measure the depth of gum pockets around your teeth. Regular dental checkups are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.

Treatment Options

Gingivitis is reversible with proper dental care and professional treatment. Treatment typically includes:

  • Professional Cleaning: Removing plaque and tartar through a thorough dental cleaning.
  • Improved Oral Hygiene: Daily brushing and flossing to prevent plaque buildup.
  • Antimicrobial Mouth Rinses: To help reduce bacteria in the mouth.


For persistent cases, additional treatments may be necessary, including:

  • Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning procedures to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
  • Medications: Antibiotic gels or oral antibiotics to control bacterial infection.

Preventing Gingivitis

Preventing gingivitis involves maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits. Tips include:

  • Brush Regularly: Twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss Daily: To remove plaque from between teeth and under the gum line.
  • Regular Checkups: Routine visits to your dentist or periodontist for cleanings and exams.
  • Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

At Schlueter Periodontics & Implants in St. Louis, we prioritize your gum health. Our team offers advanced treatments using the latest technology, including the FDA-approved LANAP® laser procedure, which is minimally invasive and requires no downtime. Dr. Scott Schlueter and Dr. Trinity Boszko, along with our expert staff, are dedicated to providing thorough evaluations and personalized care to help you maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile.

Contact Us

If you suspect you have gingivitis or need advice on maintaining your gum health, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to answer your questions and provide the care you need. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward better oral health.

Patient Testimonials

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joan krygiel
18 September 2026
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Dr. Schlueter is a fantastic Dr. I have been treated with the best care I could have ever had.
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Wanda Gillman
17 September 2026
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The level of care and concern is outstanding. Took the time to answer questions and is attentive to my concerns while figuring out a treatment plan.
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cozy Bailey
17 September 2026
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Super polite and sensitive. Learned alot of things in just one visit after 53 years of living
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Kathleen Arink
10 September 2026
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I had a procedure done yesterday and I had another great experience with this provider and the staff. Holly, front desk, greeted me with her smile and compassion. Holly is the best person to represent what the practice is all about, kindness, patience and compassion. Dawn prepped me for the doctor, she expanded everything she was doing and answered all my nervous questions. Dawn is so kind, awesome and compassionate. She was there during the entire procedure talking to me and even singing softly. Dr. Schlueter came in with a cheerful good morning before he started. He was awesome. I'm so thankful I found this practice I even followed them when they moved there last year. I honestly can't even suggest and changes, they all do that great of a job. They're patient is first and foremost on all they do. Thank you!
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Jonathan Shanker
3 September 2026
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This is a high quality office with high standards. I’m in the dental field and I completely trust them.
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Louisa Dean
3 September 2026
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The staff, doctors, assistants and everyone I met here were so friendly and professional. The office is nice and clean. I felt confident with the work they did on my teeth and the follow up care has been great. I would recommend Schlueter Periodontics
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Tom Torretti
31 August 2026
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As always, my experience at Schlueter Periodontics was great.
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Sabrina Hurtgen
26 August 2026
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Thanks for taking such good care of our daughter, she really likes every one there.
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Kristen McNair
26 August 2026
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Dr Schlueter is great! Everyone there is thorough, pleasant and professional.
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Carol Belt Niemuth
26 August 2026
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Dr. Schlueter was very professional and courteous. He listened and answered my questions and made me feel comfortable with the plan that he recommended. His staff Is friendly and efficient. I am so happy that I chose this practice.
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Donna Pieber
20 August 2026
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From the moment I stepped into the office my nerves were settled. I just knew this was going to be terrible. I’ve had dental hysteria since I was a child. I’m 64 now so quite a welcomed surprise. I completely put all my trust in Dr. Schlueter. He was amazing and don’t use these words lightly. I a harsh critic. Every employee was so kind. I had a choice of three I planned to chose from. LOOK NO FURTHER, I found the best in my very first consultation. I didn’t have anyone to help choose my Dr. your lucky because you have me to eliminate some of the fears I had. I’m not worried at all about procedures done by him. Thanks Dr. Schlueter for calming 64 years of nightmares. I’m a LIFER!
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Sarah Stevener
17 August 2026
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Excellent care and fantastic staff. They helped restore my daughter's smile after a bad accident. They made her feel comfortable during and after the procedure. We highly recommend Dr. Schleuter and his staff.
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Clay Keeney
5 August 2026
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Shannon my hygienist was great, all of my experiences with Schlueter Periodontics have been very professional and a job well done.
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Shelley Penrod
27 July 2026
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Referred by general dentist for unusual gum issue. Timely appt. Thorough exam. Answers re my gum problem & treatment plan. Great staff. Thanks.
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Mary Zielinski
24 July 2026
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It was very good Especially with Hillary my dental assistant She made me feel more assured with my upcoming g dental surgery I am glad she will be assisting and to be with me. Hats off to Hillary I feel so much better now.
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Lois W
24 July 2026
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10 stars!!!! Always!! Staff, hygienists and Drs at this place are EXPERTS in their field. I am a high maintenance patient, a 59 year old, and they make me feel safe and comfortable. I don’t cry anymore 🎉. My insurance helps pay for it because I have periodontal disease which must be treated to save my teeth. I highly recommend them for whatever periodontic issue you have or even just routine cleaning! I have had scaling treatments, gum graft, and I am pleased - my gums are much healthier- I even had a loose tooth that firmed up!! I prefer this office over my regular hygienist, so I come here for extra cleanings even if it is an out of pocket cost. The hygienists here are experts in cleaning at the gum line and in between and are careful to my sensitive areas. My Dr is Dr Schlueter, but I have met both providers, and they are kind and personable. I was taught me how to clean my teeth better and I am so thankful my dentist referred me here. I have been going here for several years. The staff are professional, respectful and empathetic 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟#keepyourteeth.
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Brenda Salas
22 July 2026
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I love SCHLUETER periodontics and have been a faithful patient for over 20yrs! I wouldn’t trust anyone else!
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Katie Jansen
11 July 2026
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So grateful and thankful for Schlueter Periodontists and Implants for their kindness and support during my journey in and out of their office. Staff are professional and courteous during decision time and with help making appointments work with you. We all have our story for why we need a periodontist. I’ve never had anyone tell me, “You have pretty teeth.” Now I have. I am definitely grateful for the work they did.
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Pat Mulligan
2 July 2026
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I have had multiple procedures by Dr. Trinity Bozco and she’s very professional, caring and patient with each procedure. I trust her recommendations and follow through with them. The staff is also professional and caring. I recommend Schlueter Periodontics
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daron chillers
30 June 2026
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Super nice super cool they make you feel so comfortable and relaxed they are very accommodating to people who are sensitive and a little nervous or scared
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Chloe Steger
29 June 2026
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Consultation for implant. Very kind and accommodating. Very patient with the many questions my family and I had.
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Diana Turner
25 June 2026
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I would recommend this practice 100% I had a gum graft and everything about it went exactly as planned with excellent results. For Dental Hygienist Shannon, absolutely the best I have ever experienced (and I am really old)!
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Jonathan Riethmeier
17 June 2026
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Wonderful treatment and follow-up care. Thanks for taking such good care of me.
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Jordan Garrett
12 June 2026
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Had my son come in for a gum graft. They did so well and helped him so much. Everyone should go here!
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Laura Mears
4 June 2026
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My daughter needed a gum graft and we were referred here by her orthodontist. We were so impressed with everything from start to finish. The office is beautiful and clean. The receptionist was so welcoming and able to answer all my questions. The assistants and doctors were able to explain everything well so my daughter wasn’t nervous and was confident that she was getting exceptional care. Thank you for making this experience the best it could possibly be.
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Terri Gibson
3 June 2026
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Dr. Schlueter and staff are the best! I have had numerous procedures and they all went very well. I highly recommend.
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Lila Huelster
2 June 2026
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Dr. Schleuter and his staff are great. So far I’ve had two appointments with them, a referral/exam consultation and then my gum graft procedure. I have several follow up appointments to come. I had 3 areas/4 teeth done, and the procedure was very smooth. Him and his staff are very friendly and make you feel comfortable. I highly recommend them!
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Carter Parks
2 June 2026
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I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Schlueter and his team. Everyone was extremely helpful and welcoming, reducing any anxiety I had coming in. Thank you!!
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Richard
1 June 2026
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Had Shannon as my hygienist and was quite pleased on how she answered any question I asked. She puts you at ease and is truly a real professional. In fact I asked for her on my next visit.
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MaryAnn Scheider
1 June 2026
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The best Care and Kindness from whole team. Gentle in cleaning and explaining the process and plus the extra mile on how to do maintenance on the work that was done. On the procedures to bring my mouth and smile back. Thanks so very much for everything 😎
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Steve Schuerman
27 May 2026
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Dr Schlueter was very patient and thorough with me. He took the time to explain in detail, the 3 options available to me for my implant repair and bone loss rejuvenation. Compliments to my dental hygienist Meaghan, she was awesome! Very skilled, thorough, friendly and efficient. She put me at ease with her confidence. I was a little nervous going into my deep cleaning but the entire procedure was pain free during and the next day after the procedure.
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Mary Ostertag
27 May 2026
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I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Schlueter. After dealing with a failed implant and bone loss from previous treatment elsewhere, he immediately identified the issue and created a clear plan to fix it. His expertise and attention to detail gave me so much peace of mind. The entire staff was amazing and kind. I’m extremely grateful I found this practice.
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Terry
20 May 2026
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Shannon always does a very good job
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Sarah Hornsey
14 May 2026
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Dr. Schlueter is wonderful, very detail oriented, and cares about patients.
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mary jung
11 May 2026
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After my former periodontist retired I came to Schlueter Periodontal. That was 20+ years ago and I have always been extremely happy with the service and care I have received. I can testify not all periodontal doctors are the same and Dr. Schlueter has taken great care of me.
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henry foppe
23 April 2026
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I had an excellent experience with Dr. Trinity Boszko. She was very professional and did a great job of informing me what the problem was and the potential solutions. The procedure was painless and I had a quick recovery. 10/10
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Max Steib
23 April 2026
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Got an implant done with Dr. Schlueter and would highly recommend. His team assisting him was always very kind and a pleasure to work with. I just completed my 2 year check up and very happy with how it’s all gone. Thanks!
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Robert Crowell
21 April 2026
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Dr. Schlueter and his staff are awesomely friendly which put me at ease - Dr. Schlueter and the hygienists do careful work on my teeth - they are really tops!
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James Hoefer
8 April 2026
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Great to work with and friendly staff. Highly recommend!!
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Ken Barrows
2 April 2026
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Great new location, same friendly, professional experience.