Gum disease is a condition that occurs when the soft tissue surrounding your teeth becomes inflamed or infected. This is a serious oral health issue that if left untreated, can result in tooth loss. The earlier Dr. Khavari can diagnose and treat your gum disease, the more likely you are to avoid serious issues down the road.
There are two different stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis
- Periodontitis
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, when a buildup of plaque and tartar cause your gums to become inflamed. At this point, your teeth are still firmly in place, and no irreversible bone or tissue damage has developed. Gingivitis is easily reversible with proper treatment.
Common symptoms of gingivitis include:
- Red, sore or tender gums
- Bleeding gums, particularly during brushing
- Bad breath
If left untreated, gingivitis may progress to periodontitis. This is the more advanced stage of gum disease, and more aggressive treatment is necessary in order to prevent irreversible damage.
Symptoms of periodontitis include:
- Receding gums
- Formation of deep pockets between your teeth and gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes to the way your teeth fit together when you bite down
If not properly treated, periodontitis can result in tooth and bone loss.
At Love Brushing Dentistry, we offer a variety of periodontal treatment options. Depending on the nature and severity of your gum disease, Dr. Khavari may recommend:
- Basic cleaning (for patients exhibiting the early stages of gingivitis)
- Deep cleaning and antimicrobial rinse
- Scaling and root planing
Please contact Love Brushing Dentistry using the form on this page or call 713-659-0841 today to schedule a dental exam and cleaning. We serve patients in Channelview, Baytown, Pasadena and the surrounding areas of Houston, Texas.
