Gingivitis is early stage gum disease which affects only the gums and not the surrounding bone and tissue. Symptoms include gum inflammation and infection. It is a serious problem which afflicts perhaps up to 90% of adults, but it is treatable and reversible. If left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis, severe gum disease that can cause permanent tooth and jaw damage. If you have symptoms of gingivitis, make an appointment with Drs. Ricco, Akseizer or Pappas for a thorough examination and proper treatment.
What can Drs. Ricco, Akseizer and Pappas do about gingivitis?
Drs. Ricco, Akseizer or Pappas will give your mouth a thorough examination to see if any of your teeth or dental work has rough edges that are contributing to this problem. Either one of our dentists or our dental hygienist will give your teeth a thorough cleaning above and below the gums. This will usually include a process called scaling, where the dental professional uses instruments to scrape the tartar off teeth below the gumline. Scaling is followed by a smoothing procedure called planing to make sure there are no rough surfaces to continue irritating the teeth. They can further describe the procedure and the techniques for making patients completely comfortable during the appointment.
Gingivitis is the milder and very treatable form of gum disease that affects just the gums. Untreated gingivitis can develop into serious gum disease, called periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss and permanent damage to your jaw. This is preventable. If you develop the signs of gingivitis, see Drs. Ricco, Akseizer or Pappas for a thorough examination and treatment.