Gum disease is an infection of the gums caused by the buildup of bacteria in the mouth. The buildup of plaque and tartar can cause the gums to become inflamed and infected.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease (or periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. Plaque builds up on teeth near the gum line (where the gums meet teeth) and above and below the gum line. Plaque that is not removed hardens to form tartar. If plaque and tartar buildup continues, the bacteria infect and inflame the gums, causing gum disease.
Stages of Gum Disease
- Gum disease treatment depends largely on the type of gum disease that you have. There are four stages of gum disease. Stage 1 is gingivitis. In this stage, the gums may bleed when you brush your teeth. You may also notice that your gums appear red and swollen.
- In stage 2, the gums begin to separate from the teeth. This stage is also known as periodontitis. At this stage, you may notice that your gums are pulling away from the teeth, which will cause the gums to get irritated. This stage of gum disease requires professional treatment.
- In stage 3, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth and form pockets. These pockets allow plaque and tartar to set in, which can lead to damage to the bone and tissue that support your teeth. At this stage, you may notice that your teeth begin to become loose.
- In stage 4, the gums and teeth have been severely damaged. The teeth may become loose, and they will fall out if not treated in a timely manner.
Gum Disease Treatments
- Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. Scaling is the removal of plaque and tartar from the surface of the tooth. Root planing is the removal of plaque and tartar from below the gum line. Root planing is often done after scaling but can also be done alone.
Scaling and root planing is often performed when gum disease is diagnosed. The deep cleaning helps clean the pockets between the gums and teeth. It also helps to prevent further decay and treat the infection.
- Pocket Reduction Surgery
Pocket reduction surgery is used to treat more advanced cases of periodontitis. The surgery involves removing hardened plaque deposits and calculus from below the gum line. The bacteria under the gums are responsible for causing infection and the formation of pockets in the gum tissues. Pocket reduction surgery does not stop gum disease, but it improves gum health and reduces the depth of the pockets. After pocket reduction surgery, your Dentist in Colorado may recommend more frequent cleanings, improved at-home oral hygiene, and more frequent dental visits.
- Bone Grafting
Gum disease can cause bone loss. If you have lost bone around your teeth, your dentist may recommend gum grafting. This treatment is a common way to treat gum recession. During the procedure, your dentist will use tissue or artificial bone to build up your gums. The grafting material is held in place with stitches.
- Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR)
GTR is a surgical treatment that regenerates bone and gum tissue. We use laser and biomaterials to encourage new bone growth, helping to promote a strong, healthy smile.
- Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR)
Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) is a surgical procedure that regrows bone in the jaw after teeth have been extracted. During the procedure, the dentist uses membranes and bone grafting material to regenerate bone. GBR is typically used after tooth extraction to help patients restore their jaw bones to a healthy level. GBR can preserve the jaw and restore normal function.
To learn more about the services offered at Tava Dentistry, call us at (719) 434-6630 or visit our dental office located at 320 E Fontanero St #302, Colorado Springs, CO 80907.
