Gum Disease & Treatment
Most people know the importance of brushing and flossing, but fewer give much thought to the health of their gums in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME. And yet, your gums are the foundation of your oral health. They protect your teeth, anchor them in place, and help guard against infection. Neglect them—and problems can escalate quickly.
At Gentle Dental, we’re here to help you understand how to care for your gums, how to spot early warning signs of gum disease, and what to do if more advanced treatment is needed.
What Is Periodontics?
Periodontics is the dental specialty focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating inflammatory diseases that affect the gums and the structures supporting your teeth. This includes everything from early-stage gingivitis to more advanced forms of gum disease, such as periodontitis.
While general dentists like us can handle most mild-to-moderate gum issues, we work closely with periodontists for more complex cases that require surgical treatment or implant placement.
What Does A Periodontist Do?
A periodontist is a dentist who completes three additional years of training beyond dental school to specialize in the treatment of gum disease and dental implants. Periodontists often treat more advanced conditions and perform procedures such as:
- Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing)
- Gum grafts
- Crown lengthening
- Laser therapy
- Dental implant placement
- Cosmetic gum contouring
They’re essentially the go-to expert when gum disease becomes more than a mild inconvenience.
What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the earliest and mildest stage of gum disease. It's usually caused by a buildup of plaque at the gumline and often goes unnoticed because it's painless. But if you experience:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Mild gum tenderness
- Persistent bad breath
…it’s time to schedule an appointment. The good news? With professional cleanings and improved at-home care, gingivitis is usually completely reversible.
What Is Periodontitis?
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can evolve into periodontitis—a more serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. Over time, periodontitis can cause teeth to become loose or fall out entirely.
Signs of periodontitis include:
- Receding gums
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain while chewing
- Changes in your bite
The damage caused by periodontitis can’t be reversed, but with the right treatment, it can be managed and controlled.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease doesn’t have just one cause. It’s the result of several risk factors, including:
Poor oral hygiene – Skipping brushing or flossing allows bacteria to thrive.
Tobacco use – Smoking weakens your gum tissue and reduces healing.
Hormonal changes – Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can make gums more sensitive.
Chronic illnesses – Conditions like diabetes affect your body’s ability to fight infection.
Medications – Some drugs can reduce saliva flow or cause gum overgrowth.
Mouth breathing – Constant exposure to air can dry out gums, making them more vulnerable.
Understanding what’s behind your gum disease is the first step in treating it effectively.
What Is Halitosis (Bad Breath) And How Is It Related?
Chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a symptom of gum disease. When bacteria build up in and around the gums, they release unpleasant odors that even mouthwash can’t fully mask. If you’ve noticed persistent bad breath, don’t ignore it—it could be your gums trying to send you a message.
Why Gum Disease Is A Big Deal
You might think bleeding gums aren’t a big concern. But gum disease can do far more than affect your smile. Left untreated, periodontitis has been linked to:
- Tooth loss
- Jawbone deterioration
- Systemic inflammation
- Increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and complications in diabetes
Gum disease is a chronic, progressive condition, and ignoring it can impact your whole-body health—not just your teeth.
How We Treat Gum Disease
At Gentle Dental, we start with a thorough exam to determine the stage of gum disease and tailor a treatment plan. Options may include:
- Scaling and Root Planing
This deep-cleaning procedure removes tartar from above and below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces to help the gums reattach to the teeth. - Antibacterial Rinses or Medications
We may prescribe medicated rinses or localized antibiotics to help control bacterial infection. - Periodontal Maintenance
Once gum disease is under control, we’ll see you more frequently for maintenance cleanings—usually every 3–4 months—to keep things stable. - Surgical Options
In more severe cases, we may refer you to a periodontist for flap surgery, bone grafts, or laser-assisted procedures.
Don’t Ignore Bleeding Gums—Let’s Catch It Early
If you’re noticing blood when you brush, or if your gums feel sore, swollen, or just “off,” it’s time to get them checked out. Gum disease starts small but can become serious quickly if left untreated.
Call us today at Gentle Dental to schedule your appointment. We’ll evaluate your gum health, provide gentle, effective care, and help you protect your smile, starting at the foundation.
