Reviewed by Dr. Wael Sadek, DDS·[date pending review]
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It starts when plaque and hardened buildup collect along the gumline. The early stage, gingivitis, can often be reversed with a cleaning and better home care. The later stage, periodontitis, can damage bone and loosen teeth, so treatment aims to control it.
Gum disease is a common cause of tooth loss in adults. It often develops slowly and without pain, so many people do not know they have it until a dentist checks.
Signs of gum disease
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss.
- Red, swollen, or tender gums.
- Gums that are pulling away from your teeth, making teeth look longer.
- Bad breath or a bad taste that does not go away.
- Teeth that feel loose or are shifting.
- A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite.
Smoking, diabetes, hormone changes such as pregnancy, and some medicines can raise your risk. Tell the dentist about your health and medicines.
What happens at the visit
- Exam. Dr. Sadek checks your gums and teeth and asks about your health.
- Measuring the gums. A small, thin tool measures the space between each tooth and the gum. Deeper spaces can be a sign of gum disease.
- Imaging. Digital imaging helps show the bone around your teeth.
- Cleaning. For gingivitis, a regular cleaning may be enough. For deeper pockets, the dentist may suggest a deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing. Buildup is removed from below the gumline and the root surfaces are smoothed so the gums can heal. The area is numbed first, and it is often done in sections.
- Home care plan. We show you how to brush and clean between your teeth in a way that fits your mouth.
- Follow-up. Your gums are measured again to see how they are healing.
Advanced gum disease may need care we do not provide here. If so, we will tell you where to go.
After treatment
Your gums may be sore and your teeth may be sensitive for a few days after a deep cleaning. Use a soft toothbrush. Rinse with warm salt water if the dentist tells you to. If you smoke, quitting helps your gums heal. Gum disease can come back, so people treated for it often need cleanings more often than every six months. Keeping those visits matters.
If you have facial swelling that spreads toward your eye or neck, a fever, or trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911 or go to an emergency room. If your gums are painful or swollen, call as early in the day as you can and the front desk will look for the soonest time open.
Cost factors
The cost depends on how advanced the gum disease is, how many areas need treatment, whether imaging is needed, how many follow-up visits you need, and your insurance plan. We accept dental insurance, so call to check whether we work with your plan. CareCredit can spread larger treatment into monthly payments. We also take cards and tap-to-pay. Ask for an estimate before treatment.
Why families choose our office
Dr. Wael Sadek explains what your gum measurements mean in plain words and what you can do at home to help. Outcomes vary, and he will explain your options after an exam. He speaks English and Arabic. Regular cleanings and exams for the whole family help catch gum problems early. Americana Family Dental is in Americana Plaza in Orlando, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, and restroom. We are open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM. Appointments are recommended. Call (407) 850-0133.
Questions patients ask
Can gum disease be cured?
Gingivitis, the early stage, can often be reversed with a professional cleaning and good daily brushing and flossing. Periodontitis, the later stage, usually cannot be fully reversed, but treatment can help control it and protect your teeth. Regular follow-up visits are an important part of keeping it under control.
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Bleeding gums are often a sign of gingivitis, caused by plaque along the gumline. Brushing too hard, some medicines, and hormone changes can also play a part. Do not stop brushing. Use a soft brush, clean between your teeth daily, and have the dentist check your gums.
What is a deep cleaning?
A deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, removes buildup from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces so the gums can heal and reattach. The area is numbed first. It is often done in sections over more than one visit. Your gums may feel sore for a few days.
Is gum disease linked to other health problems?
Research has linked gum disease with other conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease. Scientists are still studying how they are connected. If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar under control can help your gums, and treating gum disease is part of caring for your overall health.
