About age 30 and older have periodontitis. Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease that can often lead to bone loss in the jaw, receding gums, and even tooth loss. Fortunately, our dentists offer a procedure called scaling and root planing to help mitigate the effects of gum disease.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Schedule an appointment with our office if you recognize any of the below .
Signs of gum disease include:
- Sore gums
- Bleeding gums
- Red or swollen gums
- Receding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Tooth sensitivity
- Loose teeth
While gingivitis (gum inflammation) is reversible with good oral hygiene, the same can’t be said once it develops into periodontitis. That’s why it’s essential that you see one of our Grand Rapids dentists as soon as possible. They’ll be able to make a formal diagnosis and recommend the appropriate level of treatment.
Plaque Causes Gum Disease
Gum disease is caused by a sticky film of bacteria called plaque that lives on your teeth and gums. As you eat sugary and/or starchy foods, these bacteria eat the food particles left behind and produce an acid that erodes your tooth enamel and attacks your gums.
Over time plaque will harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. As gum disease progresses, the pockets around your teeth will deepen and get filled with plaque and tartar. That’s why our dentists often recommend scaling and root planing.
During this procedure, they remove plaque and tartar both above and below the gum line. They also smooth out any exposed tooth roots to help your gums reattach to teeth.
Schedule an Appointment With Advance Dental
Dr. Richard Neuman and Dr. Alexis Neuman offer gum disease treatments to help protect your oral health in the long run. To request an appointment with one of our , call Advance Dental at (616) 956-9183.
