What Is Periodontal Disease? Causes, Symptoms, and Early Treatment in Wareham, MA

This Article Will Address

• What periodontal disease is and why it matters for oral and overall health
• Common causes and risk factors for gum disease
• Symptoms that indicate you may need periodontal care
• Early treatment options available at Southcoast Dental
• Answers to common questions about periodontitis and treatment options
• Prevention tips to keep gums healthy
• How Southcoast Dental supports patients in Wareham, MA with advanced technology and care

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is one of the most common oral health conditions affecting adults. It begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and irritates the gum tissue. In its early stage, known as gingivitis, gums may appear red, swollen, and bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced condition where the infection damages the bone and tissue supporting your teeth.

At Southcoast Dental, serving Wareham, MA and surrounding communities, we understand that healthy gums are the foundation for a healthy smile. Gum health is also closely linked to overall wellness, with research connecting periodontal disease to heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Gum disease develops when plaque is not removed through daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed professionally.

Several factors increase your risk of developing periodontal disease, including:

• Smoking or tobacco use
• Poor oral hygiene habits
• Systemic health conditions like diabetes
• Genetic predisposition
• Hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause
• Chronic stress, which can affect immune response

Routine dental visits allow our team to identify early warning signs before the disease progresses.

Common Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Many people with early gum disease do not experience pain, which makes regular exams especially important. Symptoms to watch for include:

• Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, or tender gum tissue
• Receding gumlines
• Loose teeth or changes in bite alignment
• Persistent bad breath
• Pus between the gums and teeth

If you notice any of these signs, scheduling an evaluation quickly can help protect your teeth and gums.

Early Treatment Options at Southcoast Dental

Early intervention can reverse gingivitis and prevent further damage. Southcoast Dental offers several advanced treatments for gum disease, including:

• Scaling and root planing: A deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline.
• Antimicrobial therapy: Targeted treatments to control bacteria.
• LANAP laser therapy: A minimally invasive option that uses gentle laser energy to remove diseased tissue and promote healing.

Our CBCT imaging technology allows for precise diagnosis and personalized treatment planning, ensuring you receive the right care for your needs.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is one of the most common oral health conditions affecting adults. It begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and irritates the gum tissue. In its early stage, known as gingivitis, gums may appear red, swollen, and bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced condition where the infection damages the bone and tissue supporting your teeth.

At Southcoast Dental, serving Wareham, MA and surrounding communities, we understand that healthy gums are the foundation for a healthy smile. Gum health is also closely linked to overall wellness, with research connecting periodontal disease to heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Gum disease develops when plaque is not removed through daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed professionally.

Several factors increase your risk of developing periodontal disease, including:

• Smoking or tobacco use
• Poor oral hygiene habits
• Systemic health conditions like diabetes
• Genetic predisposition
• Hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause
• Chronic stress, which can affect immune response

Routine dental visits allow our team to identify early warning signs before the disease progresses.

Common Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Many people with early gum disease do not experience pain, which makes regular exams especially important. Symptoms to watch for include:

• Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, or tender gum tissue
• Receding gumlines
• Loose teeth or changes in bite alignment
• Persistent bad breath
• Pus between the gums and teeth

If you notice any of these signs, scheduling an evaluation quickly can help protect your teeth and gums.

Early Treatment Options at Southcoast Dental

Early intervention can reverse gingivitis and prevent further damage. Southcoast Dental offers several advanced treatments for gum disease, including:

• Scaling and root planing: A deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline.
• Antimicrobial therapy: Targeted treatments to control bacteria.
• LANAP laser therapy: A minimally invasive option that uses gentle laser energy to remove diseased tissue and promote healing.

Our CBCT imaging technology allows for precise diagnosis and personalized treatment planning, ensuring you receive the right care for your needs.

Can You Reverse Periodontal Disease?

Gingivitis can be reversed with professional cleanings and improved home care. Periodontitis, however, cannot be reversed, but it can be managed with ongoing care to prevent further damage. Consistent follow-up visits and diligent home hygiene are essential.

Prevention Tips for Healthy Gums

Maintaining gum health is possible with the right habits:

• Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Schedule dental check-ups and professional cleanings twice a year
• Avoid smoking and tobacco products
• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
• Manage health conditions like diabetes under the guidance of your healthcare provider

Southcoast Dental’s Commitment to Periodontal Health

Our team is dedicated to protecting and restoring gum health using the latest technology and patient-focused care. With same-day and emergency appointments, advanced diagnostic tools, and a compassionate approach, we make it easier to get the treatment you need, when you need it.

Protect Your Smile with Periodontal Care in Wareham, MA

Your gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. At Southcoast Dental, we combine advanced periodontal treatments with personalized care to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Serving Wareham, MA and surrounding communities, we are here to provide honest answers and effective solutions for your dental needs.

Call or book online with Southcoast Dental today to schedule your periodontal evaluation and take the first step toward a healthier smile.

Sources:

American Dental Association – Gum Disease

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Periodontal Disease

Mayo Clinic – Gum Disease