Gum disease is an infection of the gums that progresses from gingivitis to periodontitis. Your ability to reverse the symptoms you are experiencing will depend largely on the stage of the disease. Generally speaking, gingivitis can often be reversed. More advanced stages of periodontitis require management by your dentist and may or may not be reversed or at least stopped in its tracks.
You may have gingivitis if you experience:
- Swollen, puffy gums
- Red and inflamed gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Gums that bleed easily
Gingivitis is the best stage at which to put a halt to the progress of the infection. Oftentimes, a professional dental cleaning combined with improved at-home dental hygiene can reverse gingivitis. Our dentists may suggest professional dental treatments or antibiotics, as well.
If gingivitis is left untreated, additional symptoms may develop:
- Loose teeth
- Obvious gum recession
- Deep pockets between the teeth
Certain stages of gum disease may be treated with scaling and root planing, which removes tartar, reduces bacteria in the gum pockets, and smooths the tooth roots so bacteria can’t adhere to them easily.
There are other treatment options in advanced stages of periodontitis, but you may need to seek the specialized care of a periodontist.
No matter what signs and symptoms you are experiencing, you should schedule a check-up with the dentist. You deserve great dental health! Your dentist is here to provide prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of all types of conditions, including gum disease. We know that our patients are willing to do whatever they can to reverse serious dental problems, and we will be here at your side to guide you through the journey to improved oral health.
What To Do If You Think You Have Gum Disease
If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease or just suspect that your gums may be infected, our experienced dentists are here to help! Leave the diagnosis and treatment recommendations to us. We’ll recommend gum disease treatments once we’ve examined your gums, and we will provide thorough instructions for what to do at home to manage your gum health. To schedule a consultation with an experienced dentist in Greenville, SC, please call Flatrock Family Dentistry at (864) 756-5576.