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Gum Disease Treatment

Maintaining the health of your gums is vital to maintaining the integrity of your teeth, and even your overall health. Gum disease (periodontal disease) is a very common condition, and most of us will likely develop some form of it during our lifetimes, including individuals who have taken excellent care of their oral health for many years. Untreated gum disease can progress into severe stages that may cause chronic discomfort, gum recession, jawbone deterioration, tooth loss, and increased general health risks. Dr. Braydon Haskell is a specialist in periodontics, and periodontal care is a major focus of the services here at our practice. From early-stage gingivitis to advanced periodontitis, Dr. Haskell offers a variety of non-surgical and minimally-invasive treatments for gum disease that can control the condition and help prevent further damage.

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What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is primarily caused by plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. When plaque isn’t eliminated through proper brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar (also known as calculus), which can only be removed by a periodontal or dental professional. Other factors that contribute to gum disease include:

  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Smoking
  • Hormonal changes (such as those that occur during pregnancy)
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Underlying health conditions, such as diabetes

Additionally, a poor diet, stress, and even certain medications that reduce saliva production can increase the risk of periodontal disease. With consistent at-home oral care, routine dental checkups, and regular dental cleanings, gum disease can be prevented or controlled for many individuals.

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

The symptoms of gum disease vary depending on its severity, but they often begin subtly. Common signs include:

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing
  • Inflammation
  • Gums that easily bleed
  • Persistent bad breath (halitosis) and/or a bad taste in the mouth
  • Gum recession
  • A change in the bite
  • Loose teeth
  • Pain while chewing
  • A discharge (pus) between the teeth and gums
  • Tooth loss
  • Dentures that feel as though they fit differently than before

Gum disease has also been linked to a higher risk of developing serious, even life-threatening health conditions, including stroke, heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), and dementia. Because early stages of gum disease are often painless, regular dental checkups are crucial for detection and treatment.

What Are the Various Stages of Gum Disease?

Gum disease is typically categorized in three stages:

Gingivitis: The earliest stage—often marked by gum inflammation, redness, and bleeding—gingivitis is frequently reversible with proper treatment and care.

Periodontitis: At this stage, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, forming deep pockets that collect bacteria. Bone loss may also occur, making the condition irreversible without professional intervention.

Advanced/Severe Periodontitis: This final stage involves severe gum recession, significant bone loss, and loose or shifting teeth. Advanced periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and other major complications if left untreated.

What Are the Treatment Options for Gum Disease?

Treatment for gum disease depends on its severity. During your initial appointment with Dr. Haskell, he will evaluate your needs to determine whether you are experiencing gum disease and, if so, the current stage of the condition. For early stages such as gingivitis, a professional cleaning and an improved oral hygiene routine may be sufficient. For more advanced cases, scaling and root planing (also known as a deep cleaning) may be required to remove tartar and bacteria from beneath the gumline. In severe cases of gum disease, a procedure known as LANAP® may be recommended. LANAP® is a laser gum therapy that, in many cases, can be used to treat advanced cases of periodontitis without the need for traditional gum surgery. This method is minimally-invasive and does not require extensive recovery time. Dr. Haskell is LANAP®-certified and is frequently able to perform this treatment successfully for patients with more advanced cases of periodontal disease. Additionally, Dr. Haskell offers procedures such as Pinhole® Gum Grafting and VISTA (Vestibular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access) that may be recommended for patients experiencing severe gum recession.

While surgical options such as flap surgery, bone grafting, or gum grafts may be necessary for some patients in order to restore damaged tissue and bone, these options may only be recommended in the most severe cases—those for which less invasive techniques may not be as effective. Additionally, the possibility of medications such as antimicrobial rinses or localized antibiotics may also be explored.

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

The first step toward preventing gum disease is the adoption of good at-home oral hygiene habits. Brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing at least once each day can help remove plaque between teeth and along the gumline, reducing its ability to build up in these areas and transform into tartar/calculus. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are vital for removing tartar and identifying gum conditions as early as possible. The general recommendation is a minimum of two check-ups and cleanings every year, or more as advised. It is best to avoid smoking or using tobacco, as these habits increase the risk of gum disease. Other gum disease prevention steps include maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and D, which support gum health, and drinking plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated. Stress management and addressing health conditions such as diabetes can also play a role in prevention.

Do you have additional questions about gum disease treatment? Please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Haskell for more information, or to schedule an appointment.