Signs of periodontal disease include pain, bad breath, bleeding gums, and inflamed and swollen gums. This early stage is called gingivitis, and it can often be reversed with improved hygiene and regular examinations by a periodontist who can recognize if the disease is progressing or is being managed appropriately. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a much more serious condition. In instances of periodontitis, the irritated gums begin to swell due to inflammation and move away from the teeth, creating gaps (or pockets) where bacteria can become trapped and form tooth tartar. As the body attempts to fight the infection, the bone and connective tissue around the tooth begin to deteriorate. The resulting bone loss can cause pain, loosening of teeth and then potentially tooth loss.

With an expertise in periodontics, we can diagnose and treat periodontal disease efficiently. And because we are also trained in periodontal implant prosthetics, we can provide treatment and restoration if your gum disease has progressed to a point where you have lost teeth and bone. Click on these links to learn more about bone grafting, dental implants or periodontal implant prosthetic reconstruction, and then call us to discuss your options.

Certain medications and diseases—and even genetic factors—can cause some people to be more susceptible to periodontal disease, making the care of their teeth and gums even more important. Gingivitis and periodontitis aren't always painful, which means they can easily go undetected by a patient, and require evaluation by a dentist for diagnosis.