When it comes to oral health, the teeth sometimes get all the attention. But the soft oral tissues, especially the gums, are equally important. When your gums are diseased, it can not only affect your oral health, but it can also have serious consequences for your overall physical wellbeing. That is why our Denver dentists are committed to thorough perio care. 

At Metropolitan Dental Care, we offer treatment for every stage of gum disease – from preventive services to advanced gum surgery. Whether you have active gum disease, or you are simply looking to protect your health, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

What causes gum disease?

Like most diseases, gum disease results from an accumulation of bacteria. When bacteria gather on the teeth, they eventually form plaque, which hardens into tartar. Tartar can spread below the gum line, carrying bacteria with it. As bacteria multiply, they form pockets in the gums. Eventually, this will lead to inflammation, bleeding, gum recession, and tooth loss. 

How common is gum disease?

Periodontal disease is one of the most common chronic health conditions in the US. It affects 47.2% of adults above age 30 and 70.1% of seniors. 

What’s the difference between gingivitis and gum disease?

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, and its symptoms are mild. These include redness, slight bleeding, and minor inflammation. Fortunately, with timely care, gingivitis is reversible. 

Periodontitis (gum disease) is a more advanced stage of the condition. Although it is not reversible, appropriate care can halt its progression. Symptoms of gum disease include more severe bleeding and discomfort, chronic bad breath, gum recession, and tooth loss. 

Is gum disease really that big a concern?

Yes! Bacteria reproduce quickly, and their numbers can double in just 4 to 20 minutes. That means that the microbes in your mouth can quickly multiply, putting  you at risk for significant discomfort and tooth loss. 

Furthermore, gum disease may have dire consequences for your general physical health. According to researchers at Harvard University, patients with gum disease are 2-3 times more likely to suffer from a heart attack or stroke.

What are my treatment options?

Your periodontal treatment will depend on the stage of the condition. In the early phases of gingivitis, you may only require a routine cleaning. Our Denver dentists use both manual and ultrasonic tools. With this technology they can perform a very thorough cleaning with minimal discomfort. 

If you have full-blown periodontitis, we will typically recommend a deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing. Using ultrasonic scalers, your dentist will address the bacterial pockets in your gums, eliminating the microbes. He or she will also smooth your tooth roots, removing small fissures where bacteria could reside. 

If your gum disease is quite advanced, you may require gum surgery. Your practitioner may need to create a flap in your gums to access the full pocket of bacteria. Alternatively, a gum graft can replace lost tissue and protect your tooth roots. 

Contact Our Denver Dentists for Outstanding Periodontal Care 

Your gum health is too important to leave to chance. Schedule a preventive cleaning or a periodontal treatment today. 

You can make an appointment online or call us at (303) 534-2626.