What are the signs of gum disease, and how is it treated in Chicopee, MA?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health condition that affects the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. It is essential to recognize the signs of gum disease early on to seek prompt treatment and prevent further progression of the disease. Here are some common signs and symptoms of gum disease:

1. Gingival Inflammation: One of the earliest signs of gum disease is inflammation of the gums, also known as gingivitis. This may manifest as redness, swelling, and tenderness of the gums, especially along the gumline.

2. Bleeding Gums: Healthy gums should not bleed during brushing or flossing. If you notice bleeding when brushing or flossing, it may be a sign of gum disease. Bleeding gums are often a result of inflammation and irritation caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar along the gumline.

3. Receding Gums: As gum disease progresses, the gums may begin to pull away from the teeth, leading to gum recession. Receding gums can expose the roots of the teeth, making them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity.

4. Persistent Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, can be a sign of gum disease. The bacteria that cause gum disease release foul-smelling gases, resulting in chronic bad breath that does not improve with regular oral hygiene practices.

5. Loose or Shifting Teeth: Advanced gum disease can cause the supporting bone and tissues around the teeth to deteriorate, leading to loose or shifting teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can eventually result in tooth loss.

6. Pus or Drainage: In severe cases of gum disease, pockets of pus may form between the gums and teeth, leading to pain, swelling, and drainage of pus. This is a sign of advanced gum infection and requires immediate dental attention.

If you experience any of these signs or symptoms of gum disease, it is essential to seek professional dental care as soon as possible. At Church Street Dental in Chicopee, MA, our experienced dental team offers comprehensive treatment for gum disease to restore the health of your gums and preserve your oral health.

Treatment for gum disease typically involves a combination of professional dental cleanings and targeted therapies to remove plaque and tartar buildup, reduce inflammation, and control infection. Here's how gum disease is treated at Church Street Dental:

1. Professional Dental Cleanings: Our dental hygienists perform thorough cleanings to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline. This helps eliminate the source of infection and reduces inflammation in the gums.

2. Scaling and Root Planing: For more advanced cases of gum disease, we may recommend scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning. This involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing out the root surfaces to prevent bacteria from re-adhering to the teeth.

3. Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, we may prescribe antibiotics to help control bacterial infection and reduce inflammation in the gums. Antibiotic therapy may be delivered locally through the use of antibiotic gels or mouth rinses or systemically through oral or topical antibiotics.

4. Periodontal Maintenance: After initial treatment, ongoing periodontal maintenance visits are essential to monitor the health of your gums and prevent recurrence of gum disease. During these visits, our dental team will perform regular cleanings, monitor your gum health, and provide personalized oral hygiene instructions to help you maintain optimal oral health at home.

5. Surgical Treatment: In severe cases of gum disease that do not respond to nonsurgical treatments, surgical intervention may be necessary. This may include procedures such as gum grafting to cover exposed tooth roots, pocket reduction surgery to remove diseased tissue, or bone grafting to regenerate lost bone around the teeth.

At Church Street Dental, we are committed to providing personalized, compassionate care for patients with gum disease in Chicopee, MA. If you suspect you may have gum disease or are experiencing any signs or symptoms of gum disease, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced dental team will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment options, and develop a customized treatment plan to restore the health of your gums and preserve your smile. Don't let gum disease jeopardize your oral health—take proactive steps towards healthier gums and a brighter smile with Church Street Dental.