If you have sensitive or bleeding gums, you may be developing gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a destructive infection that can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems if left untreated. At Design Dental, Dr. S. Jeremy Tu and Dr. Trish Schminke offer expert gum disease treatment to patients in Cedar Rapids, IA, and the surrounding areas.
Dr. Tu holds a master’s degree in Operative Dentistry from the University of Iowa and has completed advanced training at the prestigious Dawson Academy. Dr. Schminke practiced as a dental hygienist for 14 years before earning her DDS. She has a unique understanding of gum health from both clinical and patient perspectives. Together, our dentists provide compassionate, comprehensive care for all stages of gum disease as part of our dental services.
How Does Gum Disease Develop?
In most cases, the cause of gum disease is a lack of proper oral care. This allows plaque to build up on the teeth and irritate the gums. However, teeth grinding, TMJ disorders, tobacco use, pregnancy, menopause, and poor nutrition can also lead to gum disease.
Plaque is a sticky, bacteria-filled substance. If you don’t remove it from your teeth every day, it will slowly eat away at your gums and cause tissue infections. The two stages of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Gingivitis takes place in the early stages. Most people do not even realize they have it because the symptoms are minimal. Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen, and irritated gums. In some instances, the gums bleed during brushing or flossing.
- Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease. Here, gums bleed often, pus pockets form, gums are receding, and the teeth become loose. You should expect tooth loss. In many cases, you will need intense and invasive treatment to get the severe infection under control.
Gum Disease Symptoms and Risk Factors
The most common signs and symptoms of gum disease include:
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Red, swollen or sore gums
- Sensitive gums
- Loose or wiggly teeth
- Sores or pus between gums and teeth
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Changes in the fit of dentures
Risk factors of gum disease:
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Diabetes
- Poor nutrition
- Certain medications
If you notice any of these signs, early treatment can prevent more serious health problems.
Treatment for Gum Disease in Cedar Rapids, IA
Here’s what you can expect when you visit Design Dental for gum disease treatment.
Comprehensive Exam
Dr. Tu or Dr. Schminke will examine your gums, measure the depth of any pockets, and take X-rays to evaluate your bone health. Our dentists will also review your medical history and discuss your symptoms.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on your diagnosis, we will recommend the best treatment for your specific needs:
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from deep pockets along the gum line.
- Antibiotic Therapy: Medication to fight infection, applied directly to the affected areas.
- Laser Therapy: A gentle, precise treatment option for removing infected tissue.
- Gum Surgery: For advanced cases, surgery may be needed to restore health and function to your gums.
Ongoing Maintenance
Gum disease requires ongoing care to prevent it from returning. We will create a personalized maintenance schedule to keep your gums healthy. This typically includes more frequent cleanings and regular checkups.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Preventing gum disease is easier than treating it. Here is what you can do:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss every day to remove food and plaque from between your teeth.
- Visit the dentist twice a year for professional cleanings and exams.
- Avoid tobacco products.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary foods and drinks.
Regular dental visits are especially important. Our registered dental hygienists thoroughly clean your teeth and remove any buildup along the gum line at routine cleanings. We may also recommend more frequent deep cleanings if you have chronic gum problems.
Periodontal Disease FAQs
Read answers to common questions about gum disease in Cedar Rapids, IA.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can often be reversed with professional treatment and improved home care. Advanced periodontitis cannot be fully reversed, but treatment can stop it from getting worse and help manage symptoms.
How often should I get a dental cleaning if I have gum disease?
Patients with gum disease typically need cleanings every three to four months instead of twice a year. These frequent visits help keep the infection under control.
Is gum disease hereditary?
Genetics can play a role. Up to 30% of the population may have a genetic predisposition to gum disease. If gum disease runs in your family, you may need to be extra vigilant about prevention.
Can I treat gum disease at home, or do I need a dentist?
While a strong at-home routine is important, you can’t fully treat gum disease without professional help. Daily brushing and flossing help manage symptoms and prevent progression.
But professional treatments like scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) are needed to remove tartar below the gumline and stop the infection. At Design Dental, we combine professional care with home-care guidance for the best results.
What happens during a gum disease screening?
During your exam at every routine dental visit, Dr. Tu or Dr. Schminke will gently use a small probe to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. Healthy pockets are usually 1-3 millimeters deep. Deeper pockets indicate more advanced disease. We’ll also examine your gums for bleeding, swelling, recession, and take X-rays to check for bone loss.
Can gum disease affect my overall health?
Yes. Untreated gum disease has been linked to serious health problems like heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and respiratory issues. Treating your gums can improve your gums, teeth, and overall health.
Schedule a Gum Consultation Today
Dr. Tu is accepting patients from Cedar Rapids, IA, who may be suffering from gum disease. Call Design Dental today at (319) 284-4361 or request an appointment online to get your oral health back on track!