Proactive Periodontal Care
When it comes to your oral health, gum disease is one of the biggest threats you face. The bacteria that cause this chronic inflammatory condition can silently wreak havoc, leading to tooth loss if left untreated. At Midjersey Smiles in Old Bridge, NJ, your gum health is our top priority. We understand how devastating it can be to start losing teeth or develop other systemic health issues linked to gum disease. That’s why we take a proactive, patient-centered approach to periodontal care. Our goal is to stop gum disease in its tracks through prevention, comprehensive treatment, and empowering you with the knowledge to control the condition long-term. Your smile is too precious to neglect – let us be your partners in achieving healthy gums for life.
Don’t let gum disease devastate your smile. Call Dr. Ruma Anand in Old Bridge at (732) 727-0895 to schedule an appointment with our caring team for the proactive periodontal care you deserve.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gums and bones supporting the teeth. It is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. If plaque is not removed through daily brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar and lead to infection.
Stages of Gum Disease
There are two main stages of gum disease:
Gingivitis
The mildest form, where the gums become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is reversible with proper treatment and improved oral hygiene habits.
Periodontitis
When left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis. The gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria which causes the bone and connective tissue holding the teeth in place to break down, eventually leading to tooth loss.
Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, but it’s also linked to other serious health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Seeking treatment promptly can protect both your oral and overall health.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
In the early gingivitis stage, symptoms of gum disease include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
As it progresses to periodontitis, symptoms may include:
- Gums pulling away from teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in bite pattern
- Pus between gums and teeth
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
Many people aren’t aware they have gum disease because the symptoms are painless in the early stages. That’s why regular dental visits are so important for monitoring gum health.
Gum Disease Treatments
Treatment for gum disease in Old Bridge, NJ depends on the severity of the condition. For gingivitis, professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup, combined with improved at-home oral hygiene, may be needed.
For more advanced periodontitis, scaling and root planing is usually the first line of treatment. This deep cleaning removes hardened deposits from above and below the gum line and smooths rough surfaces to prevent bacteria from re-accumulating.
If pockets between the teeth and gums are too deep for cleaning, surgical treatments like flap surgery or bone grafting may be recommended to access the root surfaces.
In addition to these procedures, customized treatment plans may include:
- Antibiotic therapy
- Laser therapy
- Tray delivery systems for medication
- Periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3 months
With the right treatment and commitment to daily brushing and flossing, it’s possible to control gum disease before it leads to tooth loss. The goal is to help patients achieve a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Practicing good oral hygiene habits by brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, and seeing your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams is the best way to prevent gum disease. Avoiding tobacco use and eating a balanced diet also promote gum health.
Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and improved at-home care, but advanced periodontitis that has caused bone loss around the teeth cannot be completely reversed. However, with treatment, the progression of bone loss can be stopped.
Most dentists recommend periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3 months to prevent the recurrence of active gum disease for patients with a history of periodontitis.
Yes, research has linked gum disease to an increased risk of other inflammatory conditions like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, respiratory disease, and premature birth. Controlling periodontal disease may help manage these systemic conditions.
Reclaim Your Confident Smile
Don’t let gum disease rob you of your smile and overall health. If you live in Old Bridge, East Brunswick, Parlin, or the surrounding communities, pick up the phone and call Midjersey Smiles at (732) 727-0895 to schedule your periodontal evaluation today. Your gum health is too precious to neglect. By catching and treating gum disease early, you can avoid costly treatments down the road and preserve your teeth for a lifetime of confident smiles. Dr. Anand and her caring team use the latest techniques to renew your gum health with personalized, gentle care. Don’t settle for anything less than a radiantly healthy mouth – make that call to Midjersey Smiles before gum disease causes any more damage. Your future self will thank you!