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Gum Disease

Family and Cosmetic Dentistry located in Gainesville, VA

Gum Disease

Gum Disease services offered in Gainesville, VA

More than 42% of adults 30 and older have gum disease, an infection that can cause severe oral health problems if left untreated. At Greenhill Family Dental Care in Gainesville, Virginia, experienced dental specialists diagnose and treat the infection to keep your teeth, gums, and smile protected. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking a visit online today.

Gum Disease Q & A

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is an infection and inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding your teeth. It has numerous causes and is common among adults. In fact, gum disease is the leading cause of permanent tooth loss. See a dentist at Greenhill Family Dental Care at the first sign of gum disease to get the treatment necessary to avoid worsening problems.

Which symptoms can gum disease cause?

Gum disease can lead to:

  • Bright red gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Receding gumline
  • Pain
  • Sore gums
  • Bad breath
  • Pain when chewing
  • Unpleasant taste in your mouth
  • Loose permanent teeth
  • Tooth loss
  • Change in your bite

It’s helpful to address gum disease in the early stages, when it’s easier to treat.

What increases the risk of gum disease?

Factors that increase your gum disease risks include:

  • Smoking
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Skipped dental cleanings
  • Genetics
  • Autoimmune diseases
  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Hormonal changes
  • Stress

Long-term exposure to saliva through kissing someone with gum disease may also increase your risk, as mouth bacteria can pass from person to person.

How is gum disease diagnosed?

The dental experts at Greenhill Family Dental Care examine your teeth and gums to determine if you have gum disease. They also review your dental history, symptoms, and lifestyle habits. Your provider measures the pockets between your gums and teeth. They may take dental X-rays to determine the most appropriate treatment based on the severity of your gum disease.

How is gum disease treated?

Your personalized gum disease treatment plan may include:

  • Deep dental cleaning (root planing and scaling)
  • Antibacterial mouthwash
  • Medications 
  • Pocket reduction surgery
  • Laser treatment
  • Bone grafting
  • Gum grafting
  • Guided tissue regeneration
  • Lifestyle changes

Greenhill Family Dental Care offers extractions to eliminate severely damaged or loose teeth and provide dental implants to replace missing teeth caused by gum disease.

You can effectively manage gum disease by making simple lifestyle changes. See your dentist routinely for cleanings and dental exams, brush after meals, floss daily, and avoid smoking. See your dentist at the first sign of gum changes and call anytime with questions. 

Schedule a gum disease evaluation at Greenhill Family Dental Care by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.