Periodontist in Las Vegas, NV

What is Periodontal Disease?

The first sign of gum disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis is a condition in which the gums become inflamed. Gingivitis is usually caused by plaque build-up, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Plaque can irritate the gums, making them red, swollen, and more likely to bleed. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and can often be reversed with good oral hygiene. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease. Therefore, it is crucial to see a dentist if you think you may have gingivitis so that we can treat it before it goes into periodontal disease. 

Periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease, may wreak havoc on your teeth. Plaque bacteria can cause your gums to recede, causing them to move away from your teeth as the bacteria destroys the tissue. Bacteria can even damage the bone that supports your teeth, leading to the loss of the impacted teeth. Periodontitis has no remedy at the moment. Fortunately, the Smiles for Life Family Dentistry gum disease specialists in Spring Valley, Las Vegas, can help you control and slow down the progression of gum disease. Periodontal disease is a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to serious health problems.

What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease can range from a mild inflammation of the gums to severe damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss. The most common symptom of periodontal disease are:

• Bleeding Gums
• Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums
• Persistent Bad Breath
• Receding Gums
• Loose Teeth 

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see Dr. John M. Quinn, Dr. Joseph Wills, or Dr. Paul Leatham for diagnosis and treatment.

Periodontal Treatment

You can typically treat periodontal disease with a professional cleaning and good oral hygiene at home. If you have gingivitis, one of our exceptional dentists or hygienists will remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth and teach you how to brush and floss properly. In some cases, additional treatment such as scaling and root planing may be necessary.

Dental scaling and root planing are two standard procedures we use to treat periodontal disease. Scaling involves the removal of plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing is a deeper cleaning that smooths out the tooth root, making it more difficult for bacteria to attach. Scaling and root planing can help to reduce periodontal pocket depth, inflammation, and bleeding. In some cases, it may be necessary to repeat the procedure periodically to maintain periodontal health. With proper care, scaling and root planing can effectively treat periodontal disease and help prevent further damage to the teeth and gums.