Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss? Are they feeling sore or sensitive? These could be signs of gingivitis, or gum inflammation. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, also called periodontitis. Harmful bacteria in the mouth form a sticky film called plaque, which can build up on your teeth and gums.
If you don’t remove plaque, it can harden over time and get stuck in the spaces between your teeth and gums. This can lead to gum irritation, pain, and, eventually, more serious gum disease. At Gun Barrel Dental Center in Boulder, CO, Dr. Rachel Barone offers treatment for gum disease. She helps patients restore their smiles with deep cleaning and other restorative dental care.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
You want to know if you have a gum infection so you can get prompt care. Some of the most common signs of gum disease include:
- Sore or irritated gums
- Red or purple gums
- Swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
If gum disease isn’t treated, it can lead to gum recession and tooth loss. Don’t wait until it gets worse. Contact our office for care before your gum problems progress.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis
This is the first stage of gum disease. It causes your gums to become red, swollen, and tender. You might also notice that your gums bleed when you brush or floss. The main cause of gingivitis is plaque buildup along your gum line.
Gingivitis is treatable, but can turn into more severe gum disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to damage in the tissue that supports your teeth. This can result in deep pockets between your teeth and gums, bone loss, and even tooth loss.
Periodontitis
Without treatment, gingivitis will progress into periodontitis. This stage of gum disease is more severe and can harm your teeth, gums, and the bone underneath. In periodontitis, the inflammation spreads to the bone and tissues that hold your teeth in place.
As the disease worsens, your gums may start to pull away from your teeth, creating deep pockets where bacteria and plaque can collect. Over time, this can destroy the bone and tissues that support your teeth, leading to loose teeth. Periodontitis doesn’t develop overnight, but certain factors like poor oral care, smoking, or diabetes can speed up its progression.
Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced periodontitis is the most serious stage of gum disease. At this point, there is significant bone loss, deep pockets in your gums, and major gum recession. The destruction of the bone and tissues that hold your teeth in place can cause teeth to become loose or fall out.
Advanced gum disease can have a big impact on your overall health and well-being. Along with tooth loss, it can cause severe pain, bad breath, and embarrassment about your smile. You need treatment right away to prevent more damage and possible total tooth loss.
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Boulder, CO
At your regular dental checkups, we offer routine cleanings that help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. If you already have gum disease, we offer gum disease treatments for mild to moderate symptoms.
Scaling and Root Planing
This deep cleaning treatment can help stop gum disease from getting worse. Scaling and root planing remove plaque and bacteria from both above and below the gum line, including your tooth roots. During scaling, we use a handheld tool to break up and remove hardened plaque. Then, we smooth out rough areas of the tooth and root to prevent bacteria from building up again.
Periodontal Maintenance Therapy
After your gum disease treatment, it’s important to keep your gums clean to prevent bacteria from returning. Even after a deep cleaning, bacteria can build up again over time. Most patients need maintenance treatments every three to four months to keep gum disease under control.
During these visits, we will check the depth of your gum pockets and take digital X-rays if needed. We’ll also perform another scaling and root planing treatment if necessary. Some patients may need to visit our office more often, depending on the severity of their gum disease.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
You can take small steps every day to protect your gums. Follow these tips to support better gum health:
- Brush and Floss: Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brushing removes plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that can irritate your gums. Flossing once a day cleans between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. When you keep your teeth clean, your gums stay healthier and less likely to become inflamed or infected.
- Visit Dr. Barone: Regular dental visits allow Dr. Barone to check your gums for early signs of gum disease. Professional cleanings remove hardened plaque, called tartar, that you can’t remove at home. Dr. Barone can also give you tips on how to best brush, floss, and care for your gums. Visiting the dentist every six months helps you stay on track with your oral health.
- Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking and using tobacco make it harder for your gums to heal and fight infection. Tobacco also increases your risk of gum disease by reducing blood flow to the gums. If you vape, smoke cigarettes, or use chewing tobacco, quitting can greatly improve your gum health and your overall well-being. We can offer support or resources if you need help quitting.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet helps your body fight off infections, including gum disease. Foods rich in vitamins and minerals, like fruits and vegetables, strengthen your gums and teeth. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks can also prevent plaque buildup. Choosing healthier foods supports both your gum health and your overall health.
Keep Your Gums Healthy
Don’t wait to get help if you’ve noticed signs of gum disease in Boulder, CO. Contact us today for a routine cleaning or to schedule an appointment. Call Gunbarrel Dental Center today at 720-881-0614 or visit our website to book your visit. We’re here to help you keep your gums and teeth healthy.