1600 E. Hillcrest St.
Orlando, FL 32083
407.895.5600
Our Office Hours:
Monday-Thursday
7am - 4pm
Friday
By Appointment
Gum Disease Therapy
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums, often caused by plaque and tartar buildup. Some people have a genetic predisposition to gum disease. Smoking increases the risk of this stealthy infection, and periodontal disease has been shown to advance more quickly in patients with diabetes.
Early-stage gum disease is called gingivitis. The first signs of gingivitis include bleeding while brushing and/or red, swollen gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can worsen and may ultimately cause bone, gum, and tooth loss.
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Oftentimes, a patient will experience no symptoms early on. That’s why regular checkups are so important. Early detection lets Dr. Puig address gum disease conservatively to alleviate your symptoms and prevent significant damage.
Some symptoms of this common bacterial infection include:
- Receding gums
- Recurring swelling
- Chronic bad breath
- A constant bad taste in the mouth
- Gums that bleed during brushing and/or flossing
- Increased pocket depth between the teeth and the gums (when the gums pull away from the teeth and form a deep crevice or opening)
What’s pocket depth?
Pocket depth is the space between gums and teeth. As periodontal disease advances, the gums may pull away from teeth and form crevices where infection can thrive. At your checkup, we’ll measure pocket depth to assess periodontal wellness. Healthy gums have a pocket depth of 1 to 3 millimeters. Patients with early-stage gum disease often have a pocket depth between 4 and 5 millimeters. Moderately diseased gums have a pocket depth of 6 to 7 millimeters, and patients with advanced gum disease have a pocket depth greater than 8 millimeters.
How does Dr. Puig treat gum disease?
At your checkup, Dr. Puig will assess your gum tissue. Healthy gums are firm, pink, and do not bleed. The bone is strong and supports the teeth. If you are diagnosed with gum disease, we’ll prescribe appropriate treatment and monitor your progress.
Treatment for early-stage gum disease includes advanced therapy called scaling and root planing, instructions on proper home-care techniques, and the use of an interdental toothbrush one or more times a day. Advanced cases of periodontal disease may require medication and/or surgery. In most cases, we find that periodontal disease can be remedied with in-office and at-home treatment.
Periodontal exams are vitally important to detect and treat gum disease early. Research has shown a link between gum disease and whole-body health complications, including heart attack, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and low-birth-weight babies. So, as you can see, it’s crucial to get your gums examined on a regular basis or anytime you experience bleeding or discomfort.
Accepting New Patients!
Enhancing lives one smile at a time. Call Dynamic Smile Design in Orlando today to schedule your appointment or consultation with Dr. Puig. Our conveniently located Orlando dental office provides downtown Orlando, Baldwin Park, Maitland, Winter Park, College Park, and surrounding areas with personalized service and comfortable, quality dentistry.