Periodontal gum disease is caused by the accumulation of plaque, a sticky combination of food and bacteria that forms a film over the outer layer of one’s teeth, and can ultimately lead to tooth loss. When plaque is not removed each day, it begins to invade the space between your teeth and gums, producing toxins. Combined with the body’s natural reaction to the toxins, they begin to destroy the bones surrounding your teeth. Once this bone is lost, it never grows back. That’s why the most important part of dental care begins at home with brushing and flossing — every day.

When periodontal disease begins to from, one might notice by persistent bad breath or painful swelling around the teeth, while others might have no symptoms at all. At Gateway Dental, Dr. Bobby Grossi checks during every routine check up for signs of the disease. If periodontal gum disease is spotted or suspected, a thorough examination will be necessary, complete with probing and x-rays. While probing will reveal the disease through bleeding gums, x-rays will show what’s going on deeper down. If an x-ray reveals uneven jawbone levels, treatments will be discussed.

For most treatments, Dr. Bobby Grossi will use a numbing solvent to assure comfort. First and foremost, all plaque and tartar will have to be removed. Once that task is completed, a scaling and root planning measure will be scheduled over a series of appointments, which are also necessary to monitor and perfect homecare efforts. In some cases, ultra sonic scaling may be necessary for plaque and tartar removal, which has proven to be easier and more comfortable that the more tedious hand-removal scaling.

Gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal disease, is the swelling and inflammation of gums. If caught in time, gingivitis can be reversed. However, if treatment is delayed, gingivitis will oftentimes lead to periodontal gum disease. To avoid gingivitis and periodontal gum disease, it is important to brush and floss every day. When periodontal gum disease has gone too far, bone grafting may be necessary. When this is the case, bone material from another source, such as a restoration, will have to fill in the area where bone structure has been lost.

When gums begin to extend and grow over one’s teeth, gingivectomy may be necessary to remove the excess gum tissue. Gingivectomy procedures can restore gums to their normal conditions while also removing diseased tissue. The procedure has also proven to improve the natural appearance of one’s smile.