What it is
Periodontal disease develops in two main stages. Gingivitis, the early stage, is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque, the bacterial film that accumulates along the gumline, and by calculus, the hardened deposit commonly called tartar. The gums become red and swollen and bleed easily, but the bone and ligament that anchor the teeth have not yet been damaged.
Periodontitis is the later stage. The infection extends below the gumline, the gums detach from the teeth to form pockets, and the supporting bone begins to break down. Bone lost to periodontitis does not regenerate on its own. The prevalence of periodontal disease in the population is high and increases with age. Genetic factors may contribute, but the primary cause is inadequate oral hygiene.
When you might need it
Periodontal disease often causes little pain, so it frequently goes unnoticed. The signs include gums that are red, swollen, or tender, bleeding during brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, gums that recede so that the teeth look longer, teeth that feel loose, and a change in the way the teeth meet when you bite.
Smoking, diabetes, and a genetic susceptibility raise the risk, and any of these signs is a reason to schedule an examination. A gum that is swollen, painful, or leaking pus may indicate an abscess, a localized collection of infection, and should not wait. Call (303) 978-1522.
What happens at each visit
The first visit is an examination. The dentist inspects the gums and uses a small probe to measure the depth of the space between each tooth and the gum. Deeper pockets indicate more advanced disease, and X-rays may be taken to assess the bone around the teeth.
Gingivitis often resolves with a thorough professional cleaning and better home care. Periodontitis is usually treated first by scaling and root planing, commonly called a deep cleaning. The dentist removes plaque and calculus from the tooth and root surfaces, above and below the gumline, using ultrasonic instruments and hand scalers. The root surfaces are then smoothed so that the gums can heal against them. This is usually done over two or more appointments under local anesthesia.
After treatment, you return so that the dentist can measure the pockets again and assess how the gums healed. If deep pockets remain, the dentist discusses the next step with you. Severe cases may require flap surgery, which is not done in this office. In that event, Dr. Itoafa refers you to a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in the gums.
Materials and what to expect afterward
Afterward the gums may be tender and may bleed lightly when you brush, and the teeth may be sensitive to hot and cold while the tissue heals. Brush gently with a soft brush and continue to clean every tooth, because skipping the sore areas allows plaque to accumulate again.
Home care determines how long the results last. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and clean between the teeth daily with floss or small interdental brushes. Calculus cannot be brushed away and is removed only by professional instrumentation. Quitting tobacco also improves healing.
Once treatment is complete, regular maintenance visits are required, because the disease can return. Patients with a history of periodontal disease often need cleanings more frequently than usual, and the dentist sets the interval according to how the gums respond.
Why Dutch Creek Dental
Dr. Mike Itoafa has owned Dutch Creek Dental since 2018, and the practice has been on West Coal Mine Avenue for more than 30 years. Gum care, including deep cleaning, is done in this office. When a case calls for a specialist, Dr. Itoafa refers you to a periodontist he trusts.
Common questions
Can gum disease be reversed?
Gingivitis often can be reversed. With a professional cleaning and consistent brushing and flossing, the gums can return to health. Periodontitis usually cannot be fully reversed, but treatment, maintenance visits, and good home care can slow its progress and help you keep your teeth.
Does gum disease hurt?
Often it does not, particularly in the early stages, which is why bleeding gums matter even when nothing hurts. Some patients have tender gums or a sore, swollen area.
Is a deep cleaning the same as a regular cleaning?
No. A regular cleaning removes plaque and calculus above the gumline. A deep cleaning also reaches below the gumline, into the pockets, and is usually done under local anesthesia over two or more appointments.
Why do my gums bleed when I floss?
Bleeding usually indicates gums that are inflamed by plaque along the gumline. Healthy gums bleed little. Continue to floss gently, since that removes the plaque, and schedule an examination if the bleeding persists.
When should I call about my gums?
Call if your gums bleed, swell, or recede, if bad breath will not go away, or if a tooth feels loose. A swollen, painful gum with pus needs prompt attention. Call (303) 978-1522.