Gum Disease Periodontist
Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, negatively impacts millions of Americans. It is estimated that nearly half of all Americans 30 years and older have some form of gum disease. While tooth, gum, and bone tissue loss are the most common problems associated with gum disease, more severe health consequences can also occur. For example, recent research suggests that gum disease increases your risk for diabetes and heart disease.
Gum disease is not curable in the traditional sense, but it is treatable. As gum disease periodontists, it is our job to stop the progression of gum disease, treat the underlying infection, and make sure that it does not return. By using a combination of professional periodontal treatment, gum disease self-care, and regular periodontal maintenance, we can save your teeth and end bleeding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth for good.
Gum Disease Periodontist
Patients often ask us whether they can receive treatment for gum disease at their general dentist’s office. Dentists are trained to treat a wide range of oral problems. On the other hand, periodontists specialize exclusively in treating gum problems, including gum disease. That is why teeth cleanings performed by a general dentist differ from those performed by a periodontist. Gum disease periodontists provide treatment that is designed specifically to stop the progression of gum disease.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is an infection that damages the gum tissue and underlying bone. The infection begins with plaque buildup on the teeth' surface. Plaque is a bacteria that must be removed daily by bruising and flossing. If plaque is not removed, it can harden below the gumline and lead to the development of gingivitis (swelling of the gum tissue), the first stage of gum disease.
Gum tissue is supposed to fit snugly around the teeth and help hold them in place. Similarly, a healthy jawbone provides a solid foundation for the teeth' roots and ensures that the teeth do not move. The gum disease infection breaks down the gum tissue and bone. As the infection worsens, the gums loosen, and bone loss occurs. Ultimately, the gum tissue and bone become so damaged that they can’t function properly, and the teeth fall out.
Gum Disease Symptoms
The symptoms most commonly associated with gum disease are:
• Bad breath
• Red or swollen gums
• Tender or bleeding gums
• Bad taste in your mouth that won’t go away
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Painful chewing
• Sensitive teeth
• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
• Change in the way your teeth fit together
Experienced, expert gum disease periodontists
At Sacramento Periodontics, our periodontists have over 30 years of experience successfully treating gum disease. We provide honest and caring periodontal services and work diligently to save our patient’s teeth. We can treat your gum disease and help you get your smile back. Let’s get started today - contact us to schedule a consultation.