Dr. C. Anthony LoPresti helps those in the Upper West Side and throughout the Staten Island area with all their gum health and treatment needs. At his practice, Dr. LoPresti treats all forms of gum disease using the most advanced methods such as laser treatments.
Gum Disease Treatment & Prevention Q & A
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease can be caused by a number of different factors. The root cause of the disease, however, is bacteria. Bacteria, in combination with mucus and other particles, forms plaque on teeth. Brushing and flossing keep this plaque from developing. If it is not removed, it can harden and form tartar which brushing can’t get rid of. This hard tartar traps bacteria and it can cause the gums to become swollen and irritated. If that is left untreated, it can cause inflammation of the gums, or gingivitis, and worse: periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more serious form of gum disease where the gums begin to pull away from the person’s teeth. The spaces left between the gums and teeth can become infected and at its worse it can cause the destruction of the bone and connective tissue which hold the tooth in place.
What are Common Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Signs and symptoms of gum disease include:
- Persistent bad breath
- Swollen and red gums
- Painful chewing
- Sensitive teeth
- Tender or bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
How is Gum Disease Treated?
Gum disease is essentially an infection and controlling that infection is the first step. Depending on the amount of damage the disease has caused treatment can vary. All forms of treatment, however, will require that the patient maintains good oral hygiene at home. The dentist may also perform a deep cleaning of the teeth and gums through scaling and root planing. Scaling is the process in which the tartar is scraped off from above and below the gum line. Root planing is a process in which the root is cleared of any rough spots where germs and bacteria accumulate. Occasionally, a laser can be used to remove plaque and tartar which can help to reduce bleeding and discomfort after the procedure.