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Gum Disease FAQs | Brookline Dentist

Periodontal Disease FAQs

What is Gum Disease?

It’s well known that not taking care of your teeth can result in cavities and tooth loss. But did you know that not taking care of your gums can lead to gum disease and other serious health risks? Periodontal disease (gum disease) affects millions of American adults to varying degrees. Gum disease is mainly the result of infections and inflammation, which occur when bacteria infect the space between your teeth and gums. The first and most common stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. People often recognize gingivitis when they see blood in the sink after brushing or flossing. If gingivitis isn’t treated, it develops into early, moderate, and advanced periodontitis. Patients may experience swollen gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, and loose teeth during these stages.

What Does Gum Disease Start to Look Like?

Most people only think about their gums. They seem like such an insignificant part of your body that you only consider their presence when you brush or floss your teeth or during a dental exam. And even if you develop periodontal disease, you may notice that you are infected once the issue has progressed to a critical point.

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

The symptoms of gum disease include swollen, red, or tender gums, bleeding and receding gums, bad breath, and mouth sores. Although these are the symptoms of gum disease, it is essential to remember that some people do not experience any symptoms before permanent damage is done. Therefore so crucial to have regular dental care. Only a dentist can tell you if you are developing gum disease before you feel it and hopefully prevent any damage to your teeth and mouth. An estimated 200 million Americans have some gum disease. That’s why we pay such close attention to your gums at every visit. We know that catching gum disease early is the best way to ensure it can be easily treated before it risks your health.

Can Gum Disease Be Fixed?

The good news is that gum disease treatment is often relatively easy, depending on the level of gum disease when it’s detected. Minor gum disease can be treated by improving oral hygiene routines or increasing the frequency of regular checkups. More severe gum disease may require root scaling and planning, where we remove oral bacteria that accumulated around the tooth roots and make them inhospitable for future bacteria. The best way to treat gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene, although additional dental and medical treatments are sometimes necessary.

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

When we think about keeping our mouths healthy, we often focus on preventing cavities. Cavity prevention is essential, but it’s equally important to prevent gum disease! Staying free of gum disease starts with prevention. Practicing oral care, such as regular brushing and flossing, can help prevent gum disease. Be sure to see your dentist regularly for professional cleaning and dental exams so that he can detect any signs of gum disease and provide appropriate treatment. Has it been a while since your last dental cleaning? Then, you might be at risk for gum disease.

Periodontal disease is a gum infection that can result in loose teeth, jawbone loss, and even tooth loss. But gum disease goes beyond your oral health. It can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Let’s protect your health! Keep your mouth and gums healthy!

Please call Alpha Plus Dental at (617) 274-8494 to learn more about gum health and schedule your consultation with the best dentists in Brookline, MA!

Dr. Kovtun and his team have helped thousands of patients
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Contact our office at (617) 274-8494 to see how cosmetic dental care can improve your life.

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Dr. Stan Kovtun DMD

A graduate of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (with honors), Dr. Stan Kovtun is among the select few mercury-safe and biological dentists in Brookline, MA. With expertise in general, preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, as well as periodontal disease procedures, Dr. Kovtun is committed to patient education and comprehensive treatment plans. So, patients keep their teeth for life.

Patients benefit from Dr. Kovtun's focus on long-term relationships, continuing education, and investments in lasers, digital imaging, ozone, and other technologies.

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I recommend alpha plus they will work with you when it comes to your teeth. They are very good with all their clients will make sure you are satisfied with the service. If you are on a budget they will try to make easy for you as best as they can. I been coming here since 2013 have not had one problem. Read More
Monica K.
I drive over an hour from Cape Cod for all my dental work because Dr. Kovtun is one of the few Biological dentists around. Not only is he a master at dentistry but he offers a healthier holistic approach to oral health that is so important to me. Often times, conventional dentists overlook at the importance or how oral health effects the entire body. He and his staff are super nice and I'm glad I found them!! Read More
Margarida R.
Have been a patient here for quite a while now. It was hard to find a dentist that I trusted in the area, but I've really enjoyed this practice. They tend to be conservative with their assessment, which I really value - no unnecessary treatments, and my teeth feel and look great. Read More
Monica O.
Dr. Kovtun is great. I chipped my 7-year molar, and he was able to fit me in the very next morning! He safely, quickly, and painlessly removed my old amalgam filling and prepped my tooth with a temporary fix while I wait for a beautiful new permanent one. He is knowledgeable, informative, and accomodating. The staff is super-competent and friendly. I will definitely be scheduling other dental procedures here. Excellent, excellent, excellent!! Read More
Meridith L.