Gum Disease Treatment & Prevention Q&A

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What causes gum disease?

Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) begins with the buildup of sticky plaque on the tooth surface and especially between teeth and at the gum line. Plaque provides the ideal environment for the buildup of disease-causing bacteria. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, a tough substance that can't be removed with brushing and flossing alone. Tartar shelters bacteria, allowing it to multiply and reach below the gum line. As the bacteria multiply, they release toxins that cause the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth, weakening tooth roots and eventually causing tooth loss. In the early stages of gum disease, called gingivitis, there may be few if any symptoms. As gum disease develops into periodontitis, symptoms can include bad breath, bleeding gums, tooth sensitivity, weak tooth roots and eventually tooth loss.

What risks are associated with gum disease?

Aside from tooth loss, studies have suggested a link between gum disease and systemic diseases including heart disease, stroke and diabetes, as well as effects on the body's entire immune system.

How is gum disease treated?

Brushing and flossing alone are not enough to treat gum disease. While regular cleanings are important to prevent disease from occurring, once disease is present, you may need more in-depth cleaning procedures called root scaling and planing, techniques that are designed to reach below the gum line and remove bacteria as well as tartar. Root scaling and planing is often divided into multiple appointment to teat different sections of the mouth. The dentists at Palo Alto Dental Spa also use a special antibiotic called Arestin to treat cleaned areas around the tooth roots to kill remaining bacteria and prevent new bacteria from taking hold. While today's planing and scaling techniques are simple and straightforward, you may be numbed to prevent discomfort if tartar buildup is significant.