At Smile Time Dental, we focus on more than just the wellbeing of your teeth. We make sure that your overall oral health is in tip-top shape, which includes the vitality of your gums. We plan to prevent and treat any issues concerning your gums, such as periodontal disease, so that your mouth stays in healthy condition. That’s why we have a periodontist on staff who is prepared to help fight these bacterial infections that hurt the gums and tissues in your mouth, and help prevent these issues from occurring.

What is Periodontal Disease? 

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is when bacteria in the mouth infects the tissue and bones supporting your teeth and causes inflammation. This generally occurs when teeth are not consistently flossed or brushed which leads to a build-up or tartar and plaque. 

There are 2 primary stages of periodontal disease: periodontitis and gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild version of gum disease that can be properly reversed. If left untreated the gum disease will lead to periodontitis. Periodontitis is when bacteria invades deep tissue pockets where membrane and bone supports your teeth and can lead to health problems and even tooth loss. Studies have shown that roughly 47.2% of adults over 30 have moderate gum disease which is the prominent reason for adult tooth loss. The easiest way to cope or avoid gum disease is by having great oral hygiene and visiting the dentist every 6 months.

You are in danger of gum disease if any of the following apply:

• Alcohol and cigarettes use 
• Genetics 
• Systemic diseases 
• Pregnancy 

• Cancer 
• Steroid use 
• Oral contraceptive use  
• Anti-epilepsy drug use

What’s the Difference Between a Periodontist and a Dentist?

Periodontists are dentists that have had an extra 3 additional years of dental training and education in gum disease. These dental professionals are also unique in the way that they can perform cosmetic dentistry and oral surgery, depending on their training. Our El Dorado Hills periodontist specifically observes the gums and bones supporting your teeth to ensure that these areas stay in superb health. A dentist tends to focus on your overall oral care while our periodontist provides their expertise to diagnose and treat oral inflammation, gum disease, and other concerning dental issues surrounding the gums and bones of your teeth.

Gum Disease Symptoms

Gum disease doesn’t always cause pain and sometimes doesn’t have any warning signs which is why it is considered a silent disease. The following are symptoms that may appear if gum disease is already infecting your mouth.

Changes to your bite or teeth:

• Defective fillings 
• Separating or loose teeth 
• Partial dentures or bridges do not fit properly
• A shift in the fitment of teeth when you bite

Changes to your gums:

• Receding gums 
• Bleeding gums when flossing brushing or biting into hard foods 
• Puffiness redness or tenderness 

Terrible breath or odd taste:

• Constant horrible breath 
• Constant metal taste 

Sores in the mouth

• Sore that lasts more than two weeks 
• Pus between the teeth and gums

How to Treat Gum Disease

The periodontists will set up a treatment plan depending on the stage of gum disease and the degree of deterioration involving your teeth, gums, or tissues. After evaluating your x-rays and performing a periodontal exam, your periodontist will review your treatment plan and answer any questions pertaining to your appointment. 

Non-Surgical Treatment

The most typical type of treatment is known as root planing. The dentist will carefully remove tarter plaque bacteria and irritants from the tooth roots and beneath the gums to prevent plaque from accruing again.

Surgical Treatment

If the gum infection is severe, the periodontist may need to perform surgery to eradicate infections or to reconstruct lost bone.

Common surgical procedures include:

Pocket reduction

With this procedure an anesthetic is applied to the area where the tissue will be folded back. The damaged bone will be smoothed, the areas of bacteria will be removed, and the gum tissues will be closed and sutured. 

Bone regeneration

With this procedure an anesthetic is applied to where the gum tissue will be folded back to expose tissue. The bacteria is removed and bone graft membranes or tissue-stimulating proteins are used to encourage natural regeneration to reverse damage caused by gum disease. Excess bone and gum tissues are adjusted to uncover more of the natural tooth. This procedure can be done to a single tooth or several teeth. The gum tissue is then sutured and closed. 

If you are  feeling discomfort and dealing with gum disease that requires a periodontist, reach out to our Smile Time El Dorado Hills as soon as possible. 

Q: Can periodontal disease be contagious? 

A: Periodontal disease is not necessarily contagious but the bacteria that causes an inflammatory reaction can be passed through saliva. If you family member has warning signs such as bad breath, swollen and red gums or bleeding you may want to see a dentist for an exam. 

Q: Does my insurance cover periodontal treatment? 

A: Most insurance plans cover periodontal treatment. We will work with you and your insurance provider to ensure your treatment will be affordable on your budget. 

Q: What are pockets? 

A: Periodontal disease is when the supporting bone and tissues are destroyed creating pockets around your teeth. Over time pockets become deeper allowing bacteria to accumulate in these pockets resulting in tissue and bone loss. 

Q: How can I avoid periodontal disease? 

A: Having good oral habits is crucial in preventing periodontal disease. Brushing and flossing twice a day and visiting the dentist every 6 months will help counteract gum disease. 

Q: Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush? 

A: Bleeding is an indicator of gum disease. If your gums bleed during or after you brush you should see a dentist for an appointment.

Q: HOW DO I GET AN APPOINTMENT?

A:You can Call Us or Make An Appointment Online