Gum Disease (Gingivitis)

Gum Disease (Gingivitis)

Gingivitis is the medical term for early gum disease, or periodontal disease. In general, gum disease can be caused by long-term exposure to plaque, the sticky but colorless film on teeth that forms after eating or sleeping.

Gum disease originates in the gums, where infections form from harmful bacteria and other materials left behind from eating. Early warning signs include chronic bad breath, tender or painful swollen gums and minor bleeding after brushing or flossing. In many cases, however, gingivitis can go unnoticed. The infections can eventually cause the gums to separate from the teeth, creating even greater opportunities for infection and decay.

Although gum disease is the major cause of tooth loss in adults, in many cases it is avoidable.

If gingivitis goes untreated, more serious problems such as abscesses, bone loss or periodontitis can occur.

Periodontitis is treated in a number of ways. One method, called root planing, involved cleaning and scraping below the gum line to smooth the roots. If effective, this procedure helps the gums reattach themselves to the tooth structure.  However, not all instances of scaling and root planing successfully reattach the tooth to the gums.  Additional measures may be needed if the periodontal pockets persist after scaling and root planing

Pregnancy has also been known to cause a form of gingivitis. This has been linked to hormonal changes in the woman's body that promote plaque production.

North Haven Office Hours

Monday
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tuesday
7:30 am - 6:00 pm
Wednesday
7:30 am - 6:00 pm
Thursday
7:30 am - 6:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed

Wallingford Office Hours

Monday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday
7:30 am - 4:30 pm
Wednesday
7:30 am - 4:30 pm
Thursday
Closed
Friday
Closed
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed

We would love to hear from you. Feel free to call or email our office with any questions.

Fantarella Dental Group - North Haven Office
127 Washington Ave
North Haven, CT 06473
203-239-1155
Fax: 203-239-2255
[email protected]

 

If you are an existing patient of our office and are experiencing an after-hours dental emergency, you may call our emergency line at
203-239-1155

Contact Us