Periodontal Therapy

Gum Disease FAQ's

Gum Treatment in Queens, New York

What is gum disease?
Gum disease (periodontitis) is an infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth. The remarkably destructive signs are not even noticeable. Most people don't feel pain, particularly in early stages. It is usually a chronic inflammatory disease that can go on for years before you even notice any symptoms. It is a condition in which the underlying bone and gum tissues are attacked in an infectious manner that result in tooth loss. Periodontal disease can be treated if detected early.

What are some symptoms of gum disease?
The first stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis in which symptoms include red or swollen gingiva (gums), blood on your tooth brush or while flossing, gums that bleed after eating, or a bad taste in your mouth (halitosis). Loose teeth or the shifting of teeth may indicate a more advanced stage of periodontal disease in which there has been some bone loss. To learn more about the stages of periodontal disease, see the diagnosis section.

What causes gum disease?
The main cause of periodontal disease is the accumulation of plaque. Plaque is the sticky - many times invisible - film of bacteria and food that forms constantly on your teeth. You must remove plaque entirely on a daily basis, or it accumulates and mineralizes to become tartar, which is also called calculus. Tartar can only be removed by a professional as it is impossible for you to remove it on your own. Neither your toothbrush nor floss will dislodge it. If tartar accumulates, it migrates down to the root surfaces of the teeth. Bacteria that causes periodontal disease thrives in these areas and produce toxins that destroy the underlying bone surrounding your teeth.

What should I do if I think I might have gingivitis?
You should see your dentist for a thorough exam and cleaning. If your doctor determines that you have gingivitis, you will be given a strict home cleaning plan. If, during the exam, the doctor finds periodontal pockets, and there are indications that some bone loss has occurred, further treatment will be necessary and cleanings may have to be done in several visits.

Can anyone get gum disease, or does it just occur in older people?
Gum disease is NOT age-dependent. Although we do see gum disease more frequently in older people, there are many cases that occur in teens and young adults causing large amounts of bone loss and eventually tooth loss. gum disease is largely dependent on your individual oral hygiene and oral anatomy. Crooked teeth and spaces between teeth create an environment in which it is difficult to clean your teeth thoroughly.