Gum disease,
caught early. treated well.
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults — and most people don't know they have it until it's advanced. At Bright Smile Dental, we catch it early and treat it gently.
overview
What is gum disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is a bacterial infection in your gum tissue. It starts silently, with few symptoms, then progresses — destroying the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place.
It occurs in two main stages: gingivitis (early, reversible) and periodontitis (advanced, requires professional treatment). Catching it early makes all the difference.
stages
Gingivitis vs. periodontitis
Early & reversible
Gingivitis
Gums become irritated, red, and swollen. Bleeding during brushing or flossing is common. Bad breath may develop. Good oral hygiene and a professional cleaning can fully reverse it at this stage.
Advanced & destructive
Periodontitis
Bacteria spread below the gumline, forming deep pockets. Bone and tissue are destroyed. Teeth may loosen or fall out. Requires professional deep cleaning — scaling and root planing.
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Causes
What causes gum disease?
Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause — food particles feed bacteria that form plaque, which hardens into tartar below the gumline. Other contributing factors include:
Tobacco use
Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Genetics
Hormone changes
Certain medications
Diabetes or HIV
Poor nutrition
Dry mouth
Obesity or aging
Symptoms
Signs to watch for
Early
Gingivitis
Red or swollen gums
Bleeding when brushing or flossing
Bad breath (halitosis)
Mild gum tenderness
Advanced
Periodontitis
Gum recession (teeth look longer)
Spaces developing between teeth
Loose teeth or bite changes
Pus between gums and teeth
Painful chewing
Hot/cold sensitivity
The process
How we treat gum disease
Examination & diagnosis
Dr. de la Paz assesses gum depth, bone levels, and the extent of disease using a thorough exam and digital x-rays.
Professional cleaning (gingivitis)
For early-stage disease, a thorough cleaning removes tartar above and just below the gumline. Combined with improved home hygiene, gingivitis is fully reversible.
Scaling (deep cleaning)
For periodontitis, scaling removes plaque and tartar deep below the gumline. Local anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable throughout.
Root planing
The surfaces of tooth roots are smoothed out to discourage future bacterial growth and help gums reattach to the teeth.
Periodontal maintenance
After treatment, more frequent dental visits are scheduled to monitor healing and prevent recurrence.
what our patients usually ask us
