Hygiene

Gum Health

If you want to keep your teeth you have to have healthy gums. When you come in as a new patient to our practice, we measure 5 different things to ensure your gums are healthy. To thoroughly evaluate, we measure plaque count, pocket depth, recessions, bleeding spots and tooth mobility. This is done quickly and easily and it helps us to see how well your gums are doing. We will also show you how to do your own mouth odor test to check your gum health. Healthy gums are not red or puffy and do not bleed. They should not leave a bad taste or smell in your mouth when you brush or floss.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is usually painless, so most people who have it don’t know they have it. Early stages of gum disease show red inflamed gums that may bleed on brushing or flossing. After some time the gums begin to shrink, which results in shorter gums and longer teeth. Spaces will also begin to show between teeth, these spaces will show up as black when you smile. If this process is not stopped, teeth can actually become loose.

Treatment of Gum Disease

Treatment of gum infections must include home care procedures to help with healing. In-office treatments may include thorough scaling and root planing of tartar above and below the gum. Also, use of antibacterial solution under the gums can improve healing. Depending on the circumstances optimal treatment intervals may be 3- 6 months.