Frequently Asked Gum Disease Questions | Answered by a Gum Disease Expert in Lexington, SC

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease or periodontitis, is an inflammatory disease caused by bacteria that affects the gums and the supporting tissues around your teeth. It ranges from a milder form called gingivitis to a more advanced and chronic condition called periodontitis, which disrupts the connection between the teeth and the tissues that hold them in place. At Holden Periodontics & Dental Implants in Lexington, SC, Dr. Sara E. Holden helps patients understand their diagnosis and find a treatment approach tailored to their specific needs and comfort level.

What Are the Early Signs of Gum Disease?

The early signs of gum disease are often subtle, and many patients in the earlier stages report no symptoms at all. The most common early indicators include red, swollen, or tender gums and bleeding during brushing or flossing. These signs are often first detected by your dentist or dental hygienist, which is why routine dental visits play an important role in catching gum disease before it has a chance to progress.

What Are the Signs of Advanced Gum Disease?

As gum disease advances into periodontitis, symptoms tend to become more noticeable and more serious. Patients may experience persistent bad breath, gum recession, increased tooth sensitivity, loose teeth, or changes in the way their teeth fit together when biting. If you are noticing any of these changes, scheduling an evaluation with a periodontist is an important next step toward protecting your long-term oral health.

Can Gum Disease Cause Bad Breath?

Yes, persistent bad breath is one of the more common signs associated with gum disease. The bacteria responsible for periodontal infection can produce compounds that cause an ongoing unpleasant odor that does not resolve with brushing or rinsing alone. Treating the underlying infection with professional gum disease treatment is the most effective way to address bad breath that is connected to periodontal disease.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and along the gumline. When plaque is not removed consistently through brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, it hardens into tartar, which cannot be removed at home and contributes to infection and inflammation in the gum tissue. Over time, this bacterial buildup can damage the gums, the surrounding bone, and the structures that keep your teeth stable.

Who Is at Higher Risk for Gum Disease?

While gum disease can affect anyone, certain factors can increase a person’s risk, including smoking, diabetes, a family history of periodontal disease, hormonal changes, and some medications that affect gum tissue. Significant research also supports a connection between oral health and overall health, which makes early detection and treatment especially important for patients with systemic health conditions. If any of these risk factors apply to you, Dr. Holden can help you understand your level of risk and develop a plan to protect your gum health.

Can Gum Disease Be Reversed?

Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can often be resolved with a thorough professional cleaning and consistent oral hygiene at home. Once the disease has advanced to periodontitis, it is a chronic condition that cannot be fully reversed, but it can be managed and treated effectively with the right treatment plan. Dr. Holden offers gum disease treatment in Lexington, including deep teeth cleaning through scaling and root planing, to help patients stabilize their gum health and protect their natural teeth long-term.

When Is Gum Surgery Needed?

Gum surgery may be recommended when non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing alone are not able to fully address the infection or restore tissue health. It is also considered when periodontal pockets are too deep to be cleaned effectively through non-surgical care alone, or when bone loss during the disease process needs to be addressed through surgical access and reshaping. Often, bone grafting procedures are recommended to help re-build what has been lost from periodontal disease. Dr. Holden takes time to discuss all appropriate treatment options with each patient, so you feel informed and confident before moving forward with any recommended procedure.

Can Gum Disease Come Back After Treatment?

Periodontal disease is a chronic condition, which means that even after successful treatment, ongoing maintenance is essential. Regular periodontal maintenance cleanings are recommended following both non-surgical and surgical therapy to remove bacterial buildup, monitor tissue health, and allow for early detection of any changes. Staying consistent with your maintenance schedule is one of the most important steps you can take to protect the results of your treatment long-term.

When Should I See a Periodontist?

You may benefit from seeing a periodontist if you have been diagnosed with gum disease, if your general dentist has referred you for specialized periodontal or implant care, or if you are experiencing symptoms such as persistent gum bleeding, gum recession, or loose teeth. Periodontists complete additional years of specialty training beyond dental school, with a focused expertise in diagnosing and treating gum disease, placing dental implants, and managing the health of the tissues that support your teeth. If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Holden at Holden Periodontics & Dental Implants in Lexington, SC, please contact our office at Holden Periodontics & Dental Implants Phone Number 803 291 0880.