Gum Disease Treatment Tigard, OR Gum disease is one of the most common oral health concerns affecting adults, yet many people are unaware they have it until symptoms become more advanced. The condition begins with inflammation of the gums and can progress to serious infection that affects the tissues and bone supporting the teeth. With early diagnosis and proper care, gum disease can often be managed effectively and long term oral health can be protected.Patients who visit our Tigard dentist, Dr.Brian Saklofsky, DMD, for routine exams and cleanings have a better chance of detecting gum disease in its earliest stages, when treatment is simpler and outcomes are more predictable. Understanding the warning signs and available treatments can help patients take action before the condition leads to more serious complications. What Is Gum Disease?Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection that affects the gums and supporting structures around the teeth. It develops when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along the gumline and is not removed through daily brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings. The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. At this stage, the gums may appear red, swollen, or irritated. Gingivitis is typically reversible with professional care and improved oral hygiene habits. However, when the condition is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis occurs when bacteria spread below the gumline and begin to damage the tissues and bone that support the teeth. As the infection advances, pockets can form between the gums and teeth, allowing bacteria to accumulate even further beneath the surface. Over time, this can lead to gum recession, loose teeth, and eventual tooth loss if treatment is not provided. Several factors can increase the risk of developing gum disease. Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause, but other contributing factors may include smoking, certain medications, hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, and medical conditions that affect the immune system. What Are The Warning Signs?Gum disease often develops slowly, which means symptoms may be mild or easy to overlook during the early stages. Many patients are surprised to learn they have periodontal disease because the discomfort may not be severe at first. Common warning signs of gum disease include:
Bleeding gums are often one of the earliest signs. Healthy gums should not bleed during normal brushing or flossing. When inflammation is present, the gum tissue becomes more sensitive and may bleed easily. Another sign is gum recession. As the infection damages supporting tissues, the gums may begin to pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth surface. This can make teeth appear longer and may lead to increased sensitivity. Bad breath that does not improve with brushing or mouthwash may also indicate the presence of bacteria below the gumline. Because these bacteria are trapped in periodontal pockets, they can continue producing odor even when the surface of the teeth appears clean. How Is Gum Disease Treated?Treatment for gum disease depends on the stage and severity of the condition. In its early stages, improving oral hygiene and receiving professional cleanings may be enough to reverse inflammation and restore gum health. When the infection has progressed beyond gingivitis, more advanced periodontal treatment may be required. One of the most common non-surgical treatments is scaling and root planing. This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and hardened deposits from both above and below the gumline. During scaling, dental instruments are used to carefully remove bacteria and tartar buildup from the surfaces of the teeth and within periodontal pockets. Root planing follows by smoothing the root surfaces of the teeth. This process helps the gums reattach more securely and makes it more difficult for bacteria to accumulate again. After treatment, patients may be scheduled for follow up visits to monitor healing and ensure the infection is responding to care. Maintaining consistent home oral hygiene habits is also essential. Brushing twice daily, flossing every day, and attending regular dental visits all play an important role in preventing the return of gum disease. In more advanced cases, additional periodontal procedures may be recommended to restore gum and bone support. These treatments are designed to eliminate infection, reduce pocket depth, and protect the long term stability of the teeth. Early diagnosis remains the most effective way to manage gum disease. Regular dental exams at Lincoln Center Smiles allow our dental team to evaluate gum health, measure periodontal pockets, and identify signs of infection before significant damage occurs. Protect Your Smile with UsIf you have noticed symptoms such as bleeding gums, gum tenderness, or persistent bad breath, scheduling an evaluation is an important first step. We can be reached by calling (503) 598-0898. Prompt care can help control the infection, protect your smile, and support your overall oral health. |
 Contact UsLincoln Center Smiles 10500 SW Greenburg Rd Suite 3 Portland, OR 97223-1406 HoursMon-Thu: 7am-5pm Phone(503) 598-0898 info@saklofsky.com |
