What are the main causes of gum disease?

Gum disease often begins with plaque buildup around the teeth. If plaque isn’t removed through daily brushing or professional cleanings, it hardens into tartar, irritating the gums and causing infection.

Does gum disease cause pain?

In its early stages, gum disease is usually painless, which makes it easy to overlook. As it progresses, symptoms like gum tenderness, bleeding, swelling, and persistent bad breath may develop.

What are the risks of leaving gum disease untreated?

Without proper treatment, gum disease can cause gums to recede, exposing tooth roots and leading to bone damage. Over time, this can result in loose teeth or even tooth loss.

How does periodontal therapy differ from a routine cleaning?

A standard dental cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar above the gum line. Periodontal therapy goes deeper beneath the gums to remove bacteria, reduce inflammation, and support gum healing.

How long does periodontal treatment usually take?

The treatment duration depends on the severity of the disease. Early cases may improve within one or two sessions, while more advanced conditions may require multiple visits and continued maintenance care.

Can gum disease return after treatment?

Yes, it can reoccur if proper oral care isn’t maintained. Brushing, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental checkups are essential for keeping your gums healthy and preventing future infection.

Expert Gum Disease Care | Drewyer Dentistry Burtonsville

Smiling woman in dental office chair wearing purple shirt at Burtonsville periodontal practice.

Gum Disease Prevention and Treatment

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, develops when harmful bacteria in dental plaque build up on teeth and along the gumline. Without proper care and regular cleanings, this bacteria can cause infection in the gums and supporting bone structure—leading to inflammation, gum recession, and even tooth loss.

If left untreated, gum disease can progress quickly and result in serious oral health issues. The good news is that our office uses advanced technology to detect and treat periodontal disease early, before it causes permanent damage. By identifying symptoms in their early stages, we can begin effective treatment right away to protect your smile and prevent future complications.

Understanding Periodontics

Periodontics focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. Periodontitis is a chronic infection that affects the gums, ligaments, and bone supporting the teeth. It begins with bacterial buildup that causes inflammation, and if not treated promptly, it can lead to long-term damage. Early detection and preventive care are key to maintaining strong gums and a healthy smile for life.

Types of Periodontal Disease

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, marked by redness, tenderness, and bleeding gums. At this point, the condition is still reversible with timely professional cleanings and consistent good at-home care. Seeking treatment early can fully restore gum health and stop the disease from progressing further.

Periodontitis

When gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. In this stage, plaque hardens beneath the gumline and begins to damage the tissues and bone that support your teeth. While this condition can’t be reversed, it can be managed with regular dental visits and proper care to prevent further tooth and bone loss.

Common Signs of Gum Disease

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms below, it may be time for a periodontal evaluation:

Red, swollen, or tender gums
Gums that bleed easily while brushing or flossing
Receding gums or longer-looking teeth
Persistent bad breath
Pain while chewing
Loose or shifting teeth
Tooth loss

How Plaque Contributes to Gum Disease

Plaque forms when bacteria accumulate between teeth and along the gumline. Over time, it hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and causes infection. As the gums pull away from the teeth, pockets form, allowing even more bacteria to thrive. This cycle leads to inflammation, bone loss, and, if untreated, tooth loss.

If your gums bleed easily, feel sore, or appear red and puffy, these are early warning signs of periodontal disease. Seeking treatment as soon as possible can stop the progression of infection and protect your overall oral health.

Our Approach to Periodontal Care

We customize each treatment plan to meet your unique dental needs. Depending on the stage and severity of gum disease, your care may include:

Professional dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup
Antibiotic therapy to control bacterial infection
Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to smooth tooth roots and promote healing
Surgical gum treatments for advanced cases
Personalized home care guidance to maintain healthy gums between visits

Managing gum disease requires consistent care and early intervention. Whether you’re in the early stages or need advanced treatment, our team is here to restore your oral health and help you maintain a strong, confident smile.

Don’t wait to treat the signs of gum disease. Call (301) 622-1717 to schedule your periodontal evaluation today.