Periodontal Gum Disease
Dr.JInKim
Periodontal gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is an infection that damages your gums. If periodontitis progresses without treatment, it can also destroy the hard tissue that supports your teeth. Eventually, this can lead to loose teeth, tooth damage, or tooth loss.
Dr. Jin Kim prevents, diagnoses, and treats periodontal disease and related complications. At his practice, he encourages all patients to recognize common symptoms of gum disease so they can receive the prompt treatment they need.
Here is everything you need to know about periodontitis:
Symptoms of Gum Disease
There are several signs that you may have gum disease. These may develop over time if you neglect your oral health or if you have a family history of periodontal disease. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to be seen so we can eradicate infection and preserve your oral health.
Bad Breath
There are many reasons you might have bad breath, including the foods you eat, a chronic illness, or lifestyle habits such as using tobacco. However, if you have persistent bad breath you might have a progressing infection that Dr. Kim can help diagnose and treat.
Loose Teeth
If you have periodontal disease, the infection in your gums may begin to destroy your soft tissue and bone to the point that they can no longer provide proper support to your teeth. This can lead to teeth that start to shift or feel loose.
Gum Recession
Gum recession is when your gums start to pull away from your teeth. This might happen if you grind or clench your teeth or have crooked teeth. It can also occur if you have an infection in your gums. With proper treatment and good oral hygiene, you can prevent further gum recession.
Bleeding Gums
If your gums are sore, swollen, very sensitive or tender, bright red or purplish, or bleed when you brush your teeth or after eating certain foods, you could have an active gum infection in your mouth. This is one of the most concerning signs of periodontitis and should always be taken seriously.
Diagnosis and Treatment
It’s important for Dr. Kim to diagnose the severity of your gum disease. He will review your medical history, including lifestyle habits and medications. He will also examine your mouth and look for bacteria-filled pockets between your teeth and gum line. Diagnostic tests such as dental X-rays provide information about potential bone loss.
There are several treatment options that Dr. Kim might recommend based on the severity and progression of your periodontitis. Our office offers procedures such as:
- Gum grafting to reinforce damaged soft tissue
- Laser gum therapy to remove inflamed gum tissue
- Osseous surgery and root planing to discourage the further buildup of tartar and bacteria
- Pinhole surgical technique as a minimally invasive alternative to gum graft surgery
