Gum Disease Treatment
Protecting Your Gum & Bone Health
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common but serious condition that affects the gums and supporting bone structures around your teeth. It begins with plaque buildup and, if left untreated, can progress to bone loss, gum recession, and even tooth loss. At Gramercy Dental Group, we offer advanced gum disease treatments to restore and maintain your oral health, ensuring your smile stays strong and beautiful.
Many people don’t realize they have gum disease because it often starts silently, with mild symptoms like bleeding gums or bad breath. However, without proper care, it can lead to severe complications, including tooth loss and systemic health issues. That’s why early detection and treatment are crucial for preserving both your oral and overall health.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone that support your teeth. It develops in stages:
- Gingivitis (Early Stage) – The gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily, but no permanent damage has occurred. At this stage, professional cleanings and good oral hygiene can fully reverse the condition.
- Periodontitis (Moderate to Advanced Stage) – If untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that trap bacteria. Bone loss begins, and teeth may become loose.
- Advanced Periodontitis – At this stage, significant bone and tissue destruction occurs, leading to tooth mobility and potential tooth loss. More intensive treatments, including surgery, may be needed.
Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) – The First Step in Treatment
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. It is the most effective first-line treatment for mild to moderate gum disease.
Periodontal Maintenance – Long-Term Care for Gum Health
Once gum disease is diagnosed, ongoing maintenance is essential to prevent it from returning. Periodontal maintenance cleanings are scheduled every 3 to 4 months to remove plaque and bacteria before they can cause further damage.
Why is Periodontal Maintenance Important?
- Gum disease is a chronic condition, meaning it can come back without proper care.
- Regular deep cleanings prevent reinfection and maintain gum attachment to teeth.
- It helps avoid more invasive treatments, like surgery, in the future.
Can’t I just get regular cleanings instead?
No, regular cleanings (prophylaxis) are for healthy gums and do not clean below the gumline where bacteria hide. Periodontal maintenance is specifically designed for patients with a history of gum disease.
Advanced Treatment Options for Severe Gum Disease
For moderate to severe cases, additional treatments may be needed to restore gum health:
Antibiotic Therapy
In some cases, antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses are used alongside scaling and root planing to help eliminate stubborn bacterial infections.
- Topical antibiotics (Arestin) can be placed directly into deep gum pockets.
- Oral antibiotics may be prescribed for aggressive infections.
Gum Grafting (For Receding Gums)
When gum disease causes significant gum recession, gum grafting can help rebuild lost tissue and protect the roots of your teeth.
- Connective tissue grafts use a small sample of your own tissue to cover exposed roots.
- Helps reduce tooth sensitivity and restores the natural gumline.
Pocket Reduction Surgery (Flap Surgery)
For deep gum pockets that don’t heal with non-surgical treatments, a pocket reduction procedure is performed to lift the gums, remove bacteria, and reattach the gums to the teeth.
- Reduces deep pockets where bacteria thrive.
- Promotes better oral hygiene and prevents future infections.
Laser Gum Therapy (Minimally Invasive Option)
Laser therapy is a modern, painless alternative that targets bacteria and infected tissue without cutting or stitches.
- Faster healing and less discomfort than traditional surgery.
- Effectively reduces pocket depth and stimulates gum regeneration.
How Gum Disease Affects Your Overall Health
Gum disease is not just a dental problem—it has serious implications for your entire body. Research shows links between periodontal disease and systemic health conditions, including:
- Heart Disease & Stroke – Bacteria from the gums can enter the bloodstream, increasing inflammation and the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- Diabetes – Gum disease makes it harder to control blood sugar, and diabetics are more prone to severe periodontal issues.
- Respiratory Issues – Oral bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs, contributing to infections and worsening conditions like pneumonia.
- Pregnancy Complications – Pregnant women with gum disease have a higher risk of preterm birth and low birth weight babies.
This is why treating gum disease isn’t just about saving teeth—it’s about protecting your whole body.
Take Control of Your Gum Health Today!
If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, or loose teeth, don’t ignore these warning signs! Gum disease is preventable and treatable with the right care.
Call us today to schedule your gum disease consultation and take the first step toward a healthier smile!
Take Control of Your Gum Health Today!
If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, or loose teeth, don’t ignore these warning signs! Gum disease is preventable and treatable with the right care.
Call us today to schedule your gum disease consultation and take the first step toward a healthier smile!
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Disease Treatment
Is gum disease reversible?
Yes, if caught early (gingivitis stage), it can be fully reversed with professional cleanings and good home care. Once it progresses to periodontitis, it can only be managed—not cured.
Does gum disease treatment hurt?
Scaling and root planing is performed under local anesthesia, so it’s comfortable. Some mild soreness afterward is normal but manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does it take for my gums to heal?
Initial healing takes about 1–2 weeks, but full gum reattachment and pocket reduction may take several months with proper care.
Can I prevent gum disease from coming back?
Yes! The key is excellent oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months. Avoiding smoking and eating a healthy diet also helps.
What happens if I don’t treat gum disease?
Untreated gum disease leads to tooth loss, bone loss, and potential systemic health risks like heart disease and diabetes complications.