Gum Disease
Periodontal disease is an inflammation of the soft and hard tissues which surround your teeth and support them. Also called "gum disease," it is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth.
Gum disease starts with gingivitis, simple inflammation of the gums. First indications may be bleeding gums when brushing or flossing, and halitosis – bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
But gum disease can have very serious ramifications.
If left untreated, gingivitis progresses from the soft tissues to the bone. As bone dissolves from the infection, the periodontal disease causes deep pockets around the roots of the teeth trapping more bacteria. Eventually you lose anchorage, the bone that supports the teeth. The teeth become loose and fall out or must be extracted. Bone loss also complicates restorative procedures such as implants, crowns, and bridges.
Health complications of gum disease can extend beyond the mouth. The American Heart Association links certain strains of bacteria that reside around the teeth and in the crevices of the gums to serious heart problems. When these bacteria invade the mouth, they can travel through the blood stream and damage the heart valve.
Treating gum disease is very important and we take it seriously – not only on the tooth loss level; also on a systemic level. Nobody wants bacteria in his or her blood.
We begin with a non-surgical, baseline procedure called scaling and root planing. This involves thoroughly cleaning the root surfaces in those deep pockets. We remove plaque and bacterial toxins. Then we re-evaluate the condition within three months, for pocket reduction improvement.
For severe cases, we can combine the scaling and root planing with a surgical option, and a chemical or antibiotic treatment.
Each situation is assessed individually or optimal success.
Brentwood Family Dental develops a personalized treatment plan based on the type of periodontal disease you have, whether initial, moderate, or advanced.
Gum Disease FAQs
How can I tell if I have gum disease?
Gum disease often starts subtly, making it hard to notice. Common signs include bleeding, swollen, or red gums, bad breath, and receding gums. Gum disease can cause tooth mobility and receding gums in more severe cases. Dr. Alkhoury will check your gums and may take X-rays to assess bone loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, scheduling an appointment with Dr. Alkhoury is important to get an accurate diagnosis and avoid further complications.
Can gum disease be reversed?
With proper brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, Dr. Alkhoury can reverse early gum disease (gingivitis) can be reversed. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) is manageable but not fully reversible. Dr. Alkhoury will create a treatment plan to prevent further damage and improve oral health. Early intervention helps avoid tooth loss.
What treatments are available for gum disease?
Treatment depends on severity. In the early stages, Dr. Alkhoury may recommend a professional cleaning and improved at-home oral care. Advanced cases may need scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotics, or surgery. Dr. Alkhoury will customize a treatment plan based on your needs and the extent of the disease, ensuring the most effective approach to restoring your gum health. Timely intervention prevents tooth and bone loss from severe gum disease.
Will gum disease treatment hurt?
Treatment involves minimal discomfort. If you require deep cleaning, Dr. Alkhoury may numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure you remain comfortable during the procedure. Afterward, you may experience mild soreness or tenderness in your gums, which should resolve within a few days. Dr. Alkhoury will discuss pain management options and ensure you're comfortable throughout treatment. Sedation options may be available for more advanced treatments to help you relax.
How often should I see Dr. Alkhoury for gum disease treatment?
Visit frequency depends on severity. Gingivitis patients need cleanings every six months, while advanced cases require visits every three to four months. Dr. Alkhoury will recommend a schedule to maintain gum health and will also assess your condition and recommend the best maintenance schedule. Consistent visits to Dr. Alkhoury will help keep gum disease under control and prevent it from worsening.
Can gum disease cause other health problems?
Yes. Gum disease is linked to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and respiratory infections. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and affect overall health. Dr. Alkhoury emphasizes the importance of treating gum disease not only for your oral health but also for your overall well-being. If you have a preexisting condition, such as diabetes or heart disease, gum disease may complicate it, so early treatment is essential to minimize these risks.
Can I still have gum disease if my teeth don't hurt?
Yes. Gum disease is not always painful early on. Many people do not feel discomfort until it is advanced. That's why it is important to visit Dr. Alkhoury regularly for checkups, even if your teeth do not hurt. Early detection through professional exams and cleanings can help prevent severe damage to your gums and teeth before pain or other serious symptoms occur.
Dr. Jamil Alkhoury
Connect Dr. Jamil Alkhoury on LinkedIn
Dr Jamil Alkhoury believes dentists to be artists. Taking care of another person’s teeth is definitely an art in which Dr Jamil Alkhoury is an expert. Having graduated from
University of California,
San Francisco (UCSF) with a degree in Advanced Education in General Dentistry, he has always focused on the well-being of his patients. Brentwood family dental headed by Dr Jamil Alkhoury offers a wide range of services. He always keeps in touch with the developments in the field, to serve his purpose to the best of his abilities.
Audrey T.
"Dr Alkhoury is wonderful! He took great care of my 5 year old daughter. He and his assistant made my daughter feel very comfortable. She is wanting to come back to the dentist for her next check up already. Highly recommend! They are the best at Brentwood Family Dental. Thank you Dr Alkhoury!!!"
