Gum Disease Annapolis MD | Gingivitis

Periodontal Therapy An Overview

Most adult patients who visit our Annapolis dental office will fall within a spectrum of periodontal disease, ranging from an inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) to a chronic disease of the gums and bone (periodontitis). Periodontal disease involves multiple stages and can progress very quickly if not treated.

With gum disease, it is common to experience no obvious signs or symptoms. For this reason, regular visits to the dentist are critical for preventing and managing gum disease. We recommend that patients schedule dental cleanings and examinations biannually, about every six months.

Common signs of gum disease include:

Red, swollen or sore gums
Bleeding gums
Receding gums
Loose teeth
Mouth sores or pus between gums and teeth
Bad breath (halitosis)
Changes in the fit of dentures

Stages of Periodontal Disease

Gingivitis– The first stage of periodontal disease is classified as gingivitis. This stage of the disease can be treated by a thorough dental cleaning and an increase in the patient’s oral care routine. During this stage, treatment can reverse the infection and there should not be any permanent damage. The most common symptoms of gingivitis include bleeding gums while brushing, redness, and inflammation.

Slight Periodontitis– The second stage of periodontal disease is known as slight periodontitis. During this stage, gums become more inflamed and begin to pull away from teeth. As gums pull away from teeth they form pockets that house more bacteria. As bacteria gathers in these pockets infection may begin to spread to the bone.

Moderate Periodontitis– The third stage of gum disease is known as moderate periodontitis. At this stage infection has reached the bone and may effect patients systemic health. Previous damage from moderate periodontitis cannot be reversed, however treatment is highly recommended and can be used to prevent future damage.

Advanced Periodontitis– The last stage of periontitis is known as advanced periodontitis. Patients are at risk for tooth loss as the infection will have reached the bone and tooth root. Treatment can prevent the disease from worsening but cannot reverse prior damage.

What can you say but the best team in town hands down. I used to hate going to the dentist till I found this group. I have been a patient for several years and can't say enough about the staff. I recommend them to everyone that is looking for the best dental care in Maryland.Dick S., Annapolis

I have been a patient for many years and have always had a fantastic experience. The office is always very clean and has a great atmosphere. All the staff are super friendly and helpful!Kyle M., Annapolis

Dr. Albert Lee, and his staff are truly a professional group. From the time you are greeted by the front office staff to time with the hygienist, you are always made to feel special. They always care about you as a patient, and strive to make you comfortable. Lee, Bonfiglio, Vesely are the gold standard in dental practices. I highly recommend them.Thomas W., Annapolis

As a patient of more than 25+ years in this dental practice, I have the vantage point of having seen it grow and mature. As the doctors have continued their educations, the quality of care has continued to be superior. Innovative dental technology and up to date procedures are always at the forefront of the doctors abilities to care for me and my family. The staff of the practice are all long term employees. That tells me that the doctors care for their employees. I know that if I should have some type of dental emergency that I will be seen quickly.John T., Annapolis

Periodontal Therapy What to Expect

Our dentists offers several treatment options for periodontal disease. If you have early signs of gum disease, your dentist may recommend frequent dental cleanings to restore your gums to optimal health. We will also recommend increasing your own oral care routine.

If more intensive treatment is needed, your dentist may perform a deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from the deep pockets of the gum.

If you have advanced signs of gum disease, the dentist may recommend an intense treatment or surgery. In these cases, our dentists may work with a local periodontist to restore your gum health.

Periodontal Therapy FAQs

What causes gum disease?: Gum disease is caused by bacteria that attack the gum tissue and eventually the bone. The bacteria thrive in plaque, which forms constantly in the mouth. Overtime, plaque accumulates and hardens into tartar which can push down into the pockets of the gum and cause irritation and inflammation. Gingivitis (inflammation) is the first stage, but it can quickly progress into an infection, destroy gum tissue and eventually degrade bone to the point that teeth can become loose or missing.
How can I prevent gum disease?: Brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day are great ways to prevent gum disease. In addition, you should visit your dentist at least every six months for a professional tooth cleaning which will help remove plaque build up before it hardens into tartar. Another important step in the prevention of gum disease is having a healthy diet. This means limiting sodas, sweets and snacks between meals. Drinking water will also help reduce bacteria in the mouth. Smoking increases the risk of gum disease.
Can gum disease cause oral cancer?: Gum disease creates a large opportunity for bacteria to penetrate your blood stream. If left unchecked, gum disease can progress and contribute to other health issues, including oral cancer.
Will bleeding gums stop bleeding on their own?: Sometimes. Gums that bleed temporarily can be a sign of brushing or flossing your teeth too hard, recent mouth trauma, and eating hard/sharp foods. Although if your gums bleed regularly, they will not stop without help from your dentist.
How long until gum disease is serious?: If you have gingivitis, it can take three to four weeks for gum diesase to develop. After that point, it may take a year to fifteen months to develop advanced gum disease.
When should I worry about gum disease?: If you notice your gums bleeding when you brush your teeth, you most likely have gingivitis, or gum inflammation. Gingivitis is an early sign of gum disease. To reverse gingivitis, begin flossing before brushing and visit the dentist for a thorough dental cleaning.

Gum Disease Annapolis, MD

Periodontal Therapy An Overview

Common signs of gum disease include:

Stages of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Therapy What to Expect

Periodontal Therapy FAQs