What Gum Disease Is
Gum disease starts when plaque and tartar build up along and under the gumline. The first stage, gingivitis, causes red, puffy gums that bleed when you brush or floss. At this stage it can usually be reversed with a professional cleaning and better daily care at home.
If it isn't treated, the infection can move deeper and become periodontitis. The gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets, and the bone that holds the teeth in place slowly breaks down. That damage doesn't reverse on its own, which is why treatment focuses on stopping it and, where possible, rebuilding what was lost.
Signs to Watch For
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Gums that look like they're pulling back from your teeth
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Teeth that feel loose or have started to shift
- Sensitivity near the gumline
Gum disease is often painless, so many people don't notice it until a dental exam. If any of these sound familiar, mention them at your next visit or call to book an evaluation.
How We Measure Your Gum Health
At a periodontal evaluation we gently measure the space between each tooth and the gum around it. Healthy pockets are shallow, usually 1 to 3 millimeters. Deeper readings, bleeding and gum recession tell us where infection or bone loss may be present. Digital X-rays and, when needed, 3D imaging show the bone level around each tooth.
From there we explain what we found in plain terms and recommend the least invasive treatment that will work.
Treatment Options
- Deep cleaningScaling and root planing removes tartar and bacteria from below the gumline and smooths the roots so the gums can reattach.
- Periodontal maintenanceCleanings every three to four months help keep treated gum disease under control.
- Gum graftingGum grafting covers exposed roots, reduces sensitivity and protects teeth from further recession.
- Bone graftingBone grafting rebuilds bone lost to gum disease or extractions, often to prepare for a dental implant.
- Crown lengtheningCrown lengthening reshapes gum and bone to expose more tooth for a crown or to even out a gummy smile.
Why Patients Choose Our Norwood Office for Gum Care
- A periodontist, Dr. Milagros Serrano, on our own team, so you don't need a separate referral
- Dr. Serrano is a certified LANAP clinician and a member of the American Academy of Periodontology
- Digital X-rays and 3D imaging on site to see bone levels clearly
- Gum care, implants and restorations planned together in one practice
- Patients from Norwood, Westwood, Dover and Needham
