Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Periodontal Treatment

More than half of American adults have a form of gum disease, an oral health condition that ranges from inflammation of the gums to advanced periodontitis. 

Gum disease happens when bacteria combines with food particles to form plaque, a sticky film that hardens into tartar. Tartar is erosive to your enamel and tissue if left untreated. 

The Symptoms of Gum Disease

• Sensitive teeth—If you noticed that your teeth are sensitive to temperatures in food and beverages, you might have gum disease. Sensitive teeth during eating can be a result of periodontitis, especially as your enamel starts to weaken
• Loose teeth—As your gums react to infection, they form pockets around teeth that can quickly collect food particles and bacteria. This often occurs because your body's own immune system tries to attack the bacteria that forms around the soft tissue and jaw bone
• Chronic bad breath—When bad breath is persistent, even right after you brush your teeth, you may be suffering from a sign of gum disease 
• Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums—Gum disease is often characterized by inflammation of the gums, which make them appear red and swollen. While the swelling may not be painful, it is a clear sign that you should call your dentist in Norfolk, MA
• Disappearing gums—If your gums appear to have receded, you are noticing a strong indication of periodontitis. When the tissue around the tooth pulls back, it starts to expose the tooth and its root

We Can Help You Treat Gum Disease in Norfolk, MA

Gum disease can happen to anyone—and we can help you treat it, especially in the early stages. 

If patients do not recognize the early signs of gum disease, it can start to affect the gum tissue and underlying jaw bone, making it one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss.

Gum disease treatment in Norfolk, MA starts with routine dental check-ups and exams at Norfolk County Dental Care. Coupled with regular at-home brushing and flossing, patients can help prevent gum disease or reverse early stages of it.  

Schedule Your Regular Dental Cleaning Today

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) notes that all adults could benefit from an annual comprehensive periodontal evaluation.

The next best thing is for patients to keep their regular dental cleanings and exam appointments every year. 

Periodontal disease (more commonly known as gum disease) is a condition that develops as a result of the bacteria in your mouth feeding on the food and drinks that are left on and in between your teeth. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing at least twice a day (morning and night) and flossing nightly before bed is a great way to prevent gum disease. 

Another major cause of periodontal disease is smoking, the harsh environment and extreme temperatures caused by smoking cause the periodontium (the bone that holds the teeth in place) to disintegrate or resorb; avoiding tobacco products is necessary to prevent gum disease.

Here are some strategies to prevent periodontal disease:

• Visit your dentist one to two times a year for a cleaning and checkup.
• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste a minimum of two times per day.
• Replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three to four months.
• Floss at least once per day.
• Avoid tobacco use.
• Eating a balanced diet.

Signs of periodontitis include:

• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gums
• Pockets between the teeth and gums
• Pain when chewing
• Poor tooth alignment
• Sores on the inside of the mouth
• Loose or sensitive teeth

If you think you have gum disease, don't hesitate to contact Norfolk County Dental Care to schedule an appointment.