Gum Disease

Gum disease is a serious oral health concern that nearly half of Americans experience by age 30, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With customizable treatment options and a patient-centered approach, Laila Rizvi, DMD, works alongside you to treat and reverse the effects of gum disease at My DentalCare Center in Orlando, Florida. Call the clinic today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is an infection caused by plaque. This sticky film of bacteria clings to your gums, leading to decay and damage. Once plaque reaches beneath the gum line, it creates small pockets that cause the gums to separate from the teeth. 

Without treatment, the gums lose their hold on the teeth they support, leading to:

• Shifting teeth
• Tooth loss
• Bone loss
• Tooth decay

Also called periodontal disease, this infection can increase your risk of hypertension, heart disease, and other health concerns.

Why does gum disease happen?

Gum disease happens when plaque eats away at the tissue and bone that support your teeth. Many factors can increase your risk of plaque buildup that causes gum disease, including:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Pregnancy and hormonal changes
• Genetics
• Smoking and tobacco use
• Poor nutrition
• Dry mouth
• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Older age
• Stress
• Autoimmune disease
• Diabetes

Maintaining good oral health and scheduling regular preventive dental cleanings at My DentalCare Center can help reduce your risk of gum disease.

What signs of gum disease should I look for?

Gum disease symptoms can vary depending on the type. There are two common types of gum disease, including:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. It causes redness and inflammation, but your teeth are still firmly intact.
 

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an advanced periodontal disease that often occurs when gingivitis progresses and begins forming pockets of plaque between your gums and teeth. 

Common signs of gum disease include:

• Red, tender, or bleeding gums
• Receding gums
• Shifting teeth
• Tooth loss
• Visible pockets of pus between the gums and teeth
• Loose teeth

My DentalCare Center offers many treatments for gum disease, depending on your symptoms.

I have gum disease. What are my treatment options?

The most effective treatments for gum disease include:

Scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing use a scaling tool to penetrate pockets of plaque beneath the gum line. After cleaning out the plaque, Dr. Rizvi uses a planing tool to smooth and reattach your tooth roots.

Arestin®

Arestin is a powerful antibiotic that can prevent plaque from festering beneath the gum line. If you have periodontitis, Dr. Rizvi can apply Arestin during scaling and root planing.

Gingivectomy 

Gingivectomy is a periodontal therapy for advanced gum disease that removes diseased gum tissue.

Call My DentalCare Center today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about gum disease.