While beautiful teeth are the focus of every smile, healthy gums are just as important. Healthy gums help promote healthy teeth, keep the teeth in place, and reduce the risk of issues such as shifting and tooth loss.
Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to restoring gum health. This helps minimize the risk of advanced issues like bone loss and tooth loss.
At Morristown Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Victor Gittleman offers a complete range of solutions for patients with gum disease. Our goal is to help our patients prevent gum disease, treat the effects of gum disease, and reduce the chance of re-infection. In addition to treating gum disease, Dr. Gittleman provides numerous restorative dentistry treatments in Morristown, NJ, dental office.
Signs of Gum Disease
The earliest stage of gum disease is gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums typically caused by plaque bacteria.
Symptoms of gum disease may include:
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Bleeding gums
- Redness and soreness in the gums
When left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more advanced stage of gum disease called periodontitis. During periodontitis, the gums recede from the teeth, leaving pockets where bacteria can hide. These bacteria can then damage the gum tissue, tooth roots, and bone. When left untreated, periodontitis can lead to advanced oral health complications.
Poor oral hygiene, smoking, and dental negligence are some of the leading factors that contribute to gum disease. In some cases, pregnancy, hormonal changes, and genetics can increase a patient’s risk of gum disease.
We recommend visiting our Morristown dentist office at least twice a year for routine gum disease screenings. When caught early, you may avoid the need for advanced treatment.
Diagnosing Gum Disease
At every routine appointment, our Morristown dentists screen for signs of gum disease. Preventive dental care is one of the best tools to prevent gum disease. During your routine checkup, Dr. Gittleman will assess your teeth and gums for signs of gum disease, such as:
- Bad breath
- Loose, shifting teeth
- Receding Gums
- Pockets of plaque
- Gums that bleed easily
Sometimes, we use our CBCT scanner to gain a more comprehensive view of the gums, teeth, and supporting bone structure. This advanced technology allows us to check for signs of bone loss in the jaw.
Periodontal Therapy Treatments For Gum Disease
Learning the proper ways to prevent gum disease is one of the best tools patients can have. We recommend that patients floss daily, brush twice daily, and visit our office regularly for routine screenings and cleanings. By adopting healthy oral health habits, you can reduce your risk of gum disease.
At Morristown Cosmetic Dentistry. We offer a full range of gum disease treatments for patients of all ages. After a thorough exam, Dr. Gittleman can create a detailed treatment plan for your dental needs.
Treatments for gum disease may include:
- Scaling and root planing: After numbing the area, we carefully remove tartar and plaque from above and below the gum line.
- This procedure is best for patients with gingivitis before they develop gum disease.
- Laser gum disease treatment: Dental lasers can gently remove disease and damaged gum tissue. Laser dentistry promotes faster healing, reduces the risk of infection, and improves patient comfort during and after treatment.
- Periodontal Surgery: In advanced gum disease, an oral surgeon may perform gum surgery. This reduces pocket size and promotes healthier teeth and gums.
Periodontal Therapy FAQs
Here, we aim to address common concerns and provide answers to frequently asked questions about periodontal disease. Whether you are seeking information about its causes, symptoms, or treatments, we hope to provide you with insights that will help. Understanding gum disease is vital for good oral health. It helps you make informed decisions about your dental care.
Is gum disease contagious?
No. You can’t contract gum disease like a virus. Gum disease develops over time when a dentist fails to treat your bleeding gums. You can not contract gum disease by kissing or sharing food with someone with it.
Why is periodontal therapy necessary to cure gum disease?
Gum disease does not go away on its own without medical intervention. Only your dentist or periodontist can treat gum disease once it develops. To avoid this, address bleeding gums as soon as possible.
What treatment will I require in the early stages of gum disease?
If you are in the early stages of gum disease, we will perform a scaling and root planing procedure. Most patients who get this done avoid developing more severe symptoms. Some patients only need a scaling and root planing treatment to reverse their periodontal issues.
Can you reverse gum disease?
Yes, we can reverse gum disease in its early stage, known as gingivitis. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings can help restore your oral health. However, in its more advanced stage, periodontitis, we can only help you manage your gum disease. You can prevent further damage, but not fully reverse it.
How do you diagnose gum disease?
Dr. Gittleman will diagnose your gum disease through a comprehensive examination. This may include checking symptoms, examining gums, measuring pocket depth, reviewing records, taking X-rays, and performing other tests. These will help him evaluate your overall oral health and the presence of any periodontal disease.
Can gum disease affect my overall health?
Yes, gum disease can affect your overall health. Bacteria from gum disease can enter your bloodstream. This increases your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other conditions. Regular dental check-ups and oral hygiene are vital to preventing and managing gum disease for overall health.
Schedule a Screening For Gum Disease in Morristown, NJ
If you notice any inflammation or swelling in the gums, contact our team at Morristown Cosmetic Dentistry. To schedule an appointment, call (973) 287-3337 or request an appointment online.
During your appointment, Dr. Gittleman can discuss your treatment options for gum disease. We proudly serve patients in Morristown, Madison, Chatham, and surrounding communities. Visit our dental practice for the dentistry you deserve.