Do your gums bleed when you brush your teeth? Are your gums sensitive to cold foods and drinks? You may have gingivitis. While gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is easily reversible, it can develop into a problem that can be more difficult to eliminate: gum disease.
Gum disease, or periodontitis, is a common but highly damaging dental problem that requires professional care. At Dupont Dental, we offer periodontal disease treatment in our Washington, DC, dental office for patients to restore gum health. We also offer additional restorative dentistry services in our Washington, DC, office.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Swollen and bleeding are signs of the first stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis. Gingivitis occurs due to a buildup of bacteria at the gum line.
Plaque is a sticky bacterial film that forms on the teeth and gums. If plaque is not removed, bacteria affect the immune system, resulting in bleeding and swollen gums. Gingivitis can be easily reversed with a good oral hygiene routine and regular professional cleanings.
After gingivitis, periodontitis develops. Mild periodontitis, or gum disease, occurs when the bone and tissue are damaged. Patients with periodontitis can experience gum pockets and the beginning of gum recession. Although gum disease is not reversible, specialized dental treatment can help address chronic gum disease and prevent further damage to the smile.
Advanced periodontitis is the final stage. In advanced cases of gum disease, patients can experience shifting or loose teeth, which affects the bite and results in missing teeth.
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Washington, DC
Patients can reverse gingivitis with good daily oral care at home and regular professional dental cleanings. However, once gingivitis turns into gum disease, professional intervention is necessary to save the teeth and gums. Scaling and root planing treatments remove the tartar and plaque from the gums and root surfaces.
We remove bacterial buildup from the gums and beneath the gum line during scaling. Root planing consists of smoothing the surface of the tooth roots, which can become rough when bacteria attach to the roots. Eventually, the gums heal and then reattach to the clean surfaces of your teeth.
Restore Your Gum Health
Are you noticing changes in your gum health? Do you experience bleeding, swollen, or red gums? Contact our office at (202) 946-4720 or schedule a gum disease consultation with Dr. Banks online.