Millions of Americans experience gum disease, the condition can vary; and as a progressive oral health issue it may be classified as either gingivitis or periodontitis. To help you better understand each—and how a dentist can help address them—here is a brief guide to the topic.

Progression of Gum Disease

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease that occurs when bacteria in plaque and tartar begin to irritate the tissue but have not caused lasting damage to the jawbone or teeth. If you neglect to treat it, the condition advances into periodontitis, which is when the infection causes the gum tissue to deteriorate and triggers jawbone and tooth loss.

Symptoms

If you have gingivitis, you may not feel any pain or sensitivity. However, you will likely notice physical changes to your gums. The irritated tissue may appear swollen or red. In some cases, gums will bleed—especially after brushing or flossing.

With periodontitis, gingivitis symptoms continue. However, the gum tissue will start to deteriorate and recede, exposing sensitive portions of the tooth—such as the roots—which leads to oral pain. As the bacteria in plaque and tartar spread, you may develop pimple-like abscesses in the gums and experience shifting teeth. Once there is no longer enough healthy gum tissue, teeth may fall out.  

Treatment

If you catch gingivitis early, a dentist experienced in periodontics can treat and reverse it. They will perform a deep cleaning or scaling of the teeth—including the parts beneath the gum.

Depending on the extent of the condition, scaling and root planing may not be enough to correct the problem. Sometimes laser gum therapy know as LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure), is needed to treat deep gum pockets and bone loss.  Laser gum surgery replaces traditional periodontal surgery with no cutting, no sewing and no fear.

If you’re concerned about your risk for gingivitis or periodontitis, turn to Drs Emery & Scuro DMD, PC, for complete periodontal care. Offering restorative and preventive dental care in Rochester, NY, this practice will accurately diagnose different stages of gum disease and provide gentle treatments to protect your oral health—including laser gum therapy. To learn more about how they can assist, visit the family dentist online. For appointments, call (585) 247-7110.