Gum Disease in Washington, DC
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Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a serious issue that not only affects the mouth but the entire body. While gum disease takes on several forms, gingivitis is the most common form of gum disease and is also the mildest. Symptoms of gingivitis include red or swollen gums that bleed easily. These initial symptoms of gum disease can often be treated through deep cleanings at Washington Center for Dentistry, along with a more rigorous at-home routine. The dentists are also equipped to treat periodontitis, a serious form of gum disease.
Left untreated, periodontitis can result in tooth loss, as well as necrosis of bone in the jaw. This form of gum disease has also been shown to be a risk factor for heart disease, hypertension, respiratory problems, dementia, and complications with both pregnancy and diabetes.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gingivitis is the most common form of gum disease. It is also the most mild. Symptoms of gingivitis include red or swollen gums that bleed easily. These initial symptoms of gum disease can often be treated through deep cleanings at our Washington DC dental office along with a more rigorous at-home routine. When left untreated, gingivitis can quickly advance to periodontitis, a serious form of gum disease that may produce symptoms such as:
- A persistent bad taste in the mouth
- Chronic bad breath
- Gum separation from the tooth
- Pus in between teeth
- Loose teeth
- Changes to bite strength and tension
- Oral pain
Left untreated, periodontitis can result in tooth loss as well as necrosis of bone in the jaw. This form of gum disease has also been shown to be a risk factor for heart disease, hypertension, respiratory problems, dementia, and complications with both pregnancy and diabetes. Treating periodontitis may require advanced dentistry services. Our general dentists will assess your periodontal issues and provide the treatments best suited to restore optimal oral health.
Washington Center for Dentistry Reviews
I saw Dr. Deutsch because I was concerned that I was having a problem with my gums. Dr. Deutsch was very nice, informative, responsive and most importantly,did a thorough examination of my gums. I am confident in his conclusion that my gums are fine. I will definitely come back to this practice for future dental issues.
Soon-yong gently yet effectively inspires me to maintain good flossing and brushing regimes. Yesterday, I was delighted to have my first-ever cleaning with no bleeding from the gums, not even a little bit. And Dr. Rinaldi is the only dentist I've known who does not seem determined to find yet more expensive work to do. A great team that keeps me smiling!
I saw Dr. Deutsch because I was concerned that I was having a problem with my gums. Dr. Deutsch was very nice, informative, responsive and most importantly, did a thorough examination of my gums. I am confident in his conclusion that my gums are fine. I will definitely come back to this practice for future dental issues.
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Stages of Gum Disease
Stage 1. Gingivitis – Curable with Minor Dental Procedures
Plaque and build-up of bacteria around the gum line lead to the earliest stage of gum disease known as Gingivitis.
Causes:- When you don’t brush or floss every day, bacteria grow and cause disease in the gum line.
- Gums become swollen and inflamed.
- Normal pink gums become red and puffy.
- Sometimes brushing and/or flossing cause gums to bleed.
- The disease can be reversed, because bone and connections that hold teeth in place are not affected.
- Removing plaque and bacteria helps the gum tissue heal, and gingivitis is reversed.
Stage 2. Untreated Gingivitis
Causes:
- Gingivitis is not treated.
- Conditions advance to periodontitis, which means bone and fibers that hold teeth in place are now damaged.
- Spaces open between teeth and gum tissue forming pockets, or hollow areas, around the teeth where plaque and bacteria build up. This build-up destroys bone and structures that hold teeth in place.
- Sometimes gum tissue recedes and creates gaps between teeth.
- Treatment must begin at once to prevent more damage and to prevent loss of teeth.
Stage 3: Advanced Periodontitis – Aggressive Treatment at Once to Save Teeth
Causes:- Gum disease has advanced to the final stage.
- Uncontrolled growth of bacteria has destroyed the structures and bone that hold teeth in place.
- Pockets around teeth are getting deeper and deeper.
- Teeth become mobile and loose.
- Shifting teeth that are loose can change the bite.
- Gum disease left untreated advances without stopping. Tooth loss is a likely result.
Treat and Prevent Gum Disease
Want to protect your gums from bacteria? It’s easy. Dedicated home care and regular visits to the dentist are the best protection to keep you healthy. Gum disease isn't pretty and you don't have to tolerate it. Our talented and experienced dentists at Washington Center for Dentistry have all of the tools to recognize, treat and prevent gum disease. Timely, early treatment creates the best chance for keeping your teeth for a lifetime! Whether you suspect that you have gum disease or if you have already been diagnosed, you should call us today to set-up an appointment.
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About UsGum Disease FAQs
Is there anything I should know before my gum disease treatment?
Prior to your periodontal treatment, we'll review your medical history, so it's important to have a list of any medications you are taking handy. If we haven't already done so, you may also want to speak with your insurance company so you know what to expect as far as your out-of-pocket costs. If you have any concerns about your treatment, please bring this up with our team so we can help ease your mind.
Can gum disease be cured?
Early-stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, can often be reversed with professional dental cleanings, improved oral hygiene practices, and regular check-ups. However, once gum disease progresses to periodontal disease, it cannot be completely cured. Don't let that discourage you, however, as you can prevent periodontal disease from worsening and effectively manage it through proper treatment from the Washington Center for Dentistry.
Will I lose my teeth if I have periodontal disease?
If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss. The infection and inflammation caused by the disease can destroy the supportive structures around the teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and jawbone. This is why visiting our office for periodontal disease treatment is important. The Washington Center for Dentistry offers a range of periodontal treatments to address gum disease and help preserve your natural teeth, including antibiotics, scaling and root planing, and more.
