Gum Disease Treatment – Greenfield, MA

Did you know that gum disease is one of the most common diseases in the world? According to the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, around 743 million people suffer from severe periodontitis, the more advanced form of gum disease. Having healthy teeth is important, but healthy gums allows healthy teeth to stay in the jaw. If the gums are receding, teeth won’t be able to stay in place or function properly. Furthermore, basic tasks like chewing will feel so sensitive that it will interfere with your diet and overall quality of life.

Instead of putting yourself at risk of gum disease, visit our dentists at BGH Dental. They can confirm the current status of your gums and provide treatment when necessary. Give them a call if you fear that gum disease is plaguing your oral health!

Why Regular Screenings are Important

One of the reasons gum disease is so prevalent around the world is because it’s not so easy to catch on your own. If you don’t floss and only brush your teeth, chances are you have no idea that even gingivitis is present. By the time you start to notice your gum disease, you’ve already developed mild periodontitis. This condition requires more extensive intervention than just a simple cleaning and improved at-home care.

When you visit our practice to have an examination performed by one of our dentists, you can catch the early signs of gum disease and prevent periodontitis in the first place. These preventive measures are your best defense outside of at-home oral care.

What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

Gum disease is often given the title of “silent killer” because of how difficult it can be to catch the symptoms on your own. However, there are certain symptoms you should keep an eye out for. The most common symptoms include:

• Red, tender or swollen gums
• Loose or sensitive teeth
• Receding gums
• Bleeding gums while brushing or eating
• Teeth that appear longer than usual
• A difference in the way that dentures fit
• Chronic bad breath even after brushing

Scaling and Root Planing

When gum disease is present, we perform scaling and root planing to remove plaque and promote tissue growth. Scaling involves the process of breaking down and removing plaque and tartar from underneath the gum line and inside the pockets created as a result of gum disease. Root planing is performed to smooth out the roots of teeth, allowing for tissue to reattach and to reduce the risk of future infections. In some cases, scaling and root planing may take multiple appointments to complete depending on the extensiveness of your gum disease.

Furthermore, our dentists may recommend anti-bacterial agents to treat infections further as well as create a more effective environment for tissue to regenerate.

Do you have untreated gum disease? Feel free to contact our office and speak with a family dentist in Greenfield. Get started revitalizing your gum tissue and oral health today!