GUM HEALTH
Periodontal disease, caught early, reversed.
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. The early stage (gingivitis) is reversible. The later stage (periodontitis) is manageable when treated promptly.
WHY IT MATTERS
Bleeding gums are not normal. They are an early warning.
Periodontal disease starts as inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) caused by plaque and tartar buildup along the gumline. Left untreated, the inflammation moves below the gum and starts destroying the bone that holds your teeth in place. By the time teeth feel loose, significant bone is already gone. The good news: caught early, it is one of the most reversible conditions in dentistry.
DETAILS
What we look for, and what we do.
Warning signs
Gums that bleed when you brush or floss. Persistent bad breath. Receding gums (teeth looking longer). Pus along the gumline. Loose or shifting teeth. Sensitivity to hot or cold near the gumline. Any of these warrants a periodontal exam.
How we diagnose
We measure pocket depth around every tooth with a periodontal probe. Healthy is 1-3mm. 4-5mm is early disease. 6mm+ is advanced. We also check for bleeding on probing, recession, and bone loss on x-rays. The numbers tell us where you stand and how aggressive treatment needs to be.
Treatment
Early-stage: an enhanced cleaning plus an improved at-home routine usually reverses it. Mid-stage: scaling and root planing (deep cleaning under the gums) to remove the tartar that regular cleanings cannot reach. Advanced: periodontal surgery (osseous, grafting, or pocket reduction) to restore the supporting bone.