Gum Disease Las Vegas, NV
Gum disease is a serious condition that can infect the gums, destroying the jaw and underlying bone. There are many ways to prevent gum disease and various treatment options for patients who acquire it. Effective and successful gum disease treatment involves detection in the early stages before any severe damage to the gums, bone, or jaw can occur.
Gum disease treatment is available at Hybrid Dental in Las Vegas and the surrounding area. We can help diagnose and treat gum disease while providing patients with tips on how to maintain a healthy oral cavity. Call us today at (702) 628-5807 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Understanding Gum Disease
According to the American Dental Association, gum disease is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is not always accompanied by pain—meaning that patients may not even know that they have it.
Usually, gum disease is caused by a poor oral hygiene routine that allows an excess of plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) to build up on the teeth. When plaque hardens under the gumline into tartar, it becomes more difficult to remove. At this point, the patient will be unable to remove the plaque and tartar without professional dental cleaning.
“Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease or periodontitis, is not always accompanied by pain—meaning that patients may not even know that they have it.”
Preventing Gum Disease
Although poor oral hygiene is the main cause of gum disease, there are a variety of risk factors that can increase an individual's chances of acquiring gum disease. These risk factors include:
- Smoking
- History of gingivitis
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
- Obesity
- Genetics
- Some types of medicines
However, as plaque is the greatest perpetrator, practicing adequate oral hygiene habits can prevent the development and progression of gum disease. We, along with most dentists, recommend that patients brush their teeth at least twice daily, floss at least once a day, and rinse preferably after every meal.
We suggest brushing, flossing, and rinsing after each meal for patients with early signs of gingivitis or developing gum disease. We will also recommend or prescribe the patient a special gum restorative system to use at home to nourish and restore the gums. It is highly crucial that patients visit their dentist for a routine biannual checkup and cleaning appointment to detect any early signs of gum disease and clean the oral cavity professionally.
“We suggest brushing, flossing, and rinsing after each meal for patients with early signs of gingivitis or developing gum disease.”
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease may go unnoticed for some time, especially as it is not always accompanied by pain. Even symptoms in the late stages of gum disease can be very subtle. It is crucial for patients to know the signs of gum disease, so they know how to identify them. Common symptoms of gum disease include but are not limited to:
- Changes in the bite
- Changes in the fit of partial dentures
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Gums that bleed after and during brushing teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Persistent bad breath or taste in the mouth
- Receding gums
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
Patients may still be afflicted by gum disease even without these symptoms. Some people, for instance, may only have gum disease that affects certain teeth. Our team can help identify any dental problems you may have.
“It is crucial for patients to know the signs of gum disease, so they know how to identify them.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Las Vegas, NV
Treatment Options
To properly diagnose a patient with gum disease, we measure the pocket depths between the gums and the teeth. Healthy teeth measure about 1 to 3 mm depth, while unhealthy teeth measure pocket depths up to 6 mm. This measurement, also called periodontal probing, also tells us how severe the patient's condition is. We also take X-rays and conduct a physical examination of the mouth.
The National Health Service (NHS) describes a few dental procedures that have been found effective in treating gum disease, including scale and polish, root planing, and surgery. Flap surgery, a common minor surgical procedure, involves lifting the gums back, thoroughly cleaning out the infection, and reshaping the bone. The flap is then reattached to the teeth more firmly as to solve the deep pocket depths present before surgery. The gums then naturally heal over the teeth.
“The NHS describes a few dental procedures that have been found effective in treating gum disease, including scale and polish, root planing, and surgery.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the signs of gum disease?
Q. How can I prevent getting gum disease?
Q. What are some treatment options for gum disease?
People Also Ask
Q. What can I do about receding gums?
Q. What lifestyle factors can trigger gum bleeding?
Q. What should a home oral care routine include?
Gum Disease Statistics
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost half of all American adults suffer from some form of periodontal disease. This number increases with age, with 70% of adults 65 years and older reporting to have the condition. Furthermore, it is more common among men than women. To address such problems, the CDC is working with organizations like the American Academy of Periodontology and the American Dental Association to "improve and sustain surveillance of periodontal disease in the adult U.S. population."
“According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost half of all American adults suffer from some form of periodontal disease.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is gum disease curable?
A. Gum disease is reversible in mild to moderate cases in which the infection has not caused severe side effects, such as tooth loss. Periodontal disease, the advanced stage of gum disease, is not reversible. It is important to undergo treatment immediately after a diagnosis to prevent further progression of the disease.
Q. What is the link between gum disease and cardiovascular disease?
A. The mouth is one of the main entryways to the rest of the body and any bacteria, good or bad, travels through the airways to the respiratory system. Plaque is an extremely harmful bacteria that can clog arteries and the heart valves, causing cardiovascular problems.
Q. How can I treat gum disease at home?
A. There are many at-home treatments for gum disease today, including special tools and mouthwashes that help strengthen the gums and remove plaque. However, no at-home treatment trumps professional dental cleanings. We use medical-grade tools made especially for the teeth and gums and have the necessary training to combat oral disease and infection. Even a simple routine dental cleaning can reduce or eliminate gum disease by clearing the pockets and minimizing depths.
Q. How much does gum flap surgery cost?
A. Flap surgery, also called surgical pocket reduction, is considered a minor surgery. The surgery typically costs between $1,000 to $3,000 for patients paying out-of-pocket. Most insurance plans cover gum disease treatment as it is a severe condition that can put a patient's oral health at risk. We encourage patients to talk to their insurance provider to fully understand what their plan entails.
Q. What if gum disease is left untreated?
A. When gum disease goes untreated, the infection inevitably spreads and destroys more of the gums, underlying bone, and jaw. That is why loose teeth and tooth loss are common complications of the disease. Gum disease can also result in cardiovascular and respiratory issues as plaque travels through the mouth to the airways and valves within our other body systems.
Scan here to view this page, Gum Disease, on mobile
Gum Disease Terminology
Learn More Today
Gum disease may lead to worse oral health problems further along the line. We at Hybrid Dental may be able to help. Call us today at (702) 628-5807 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business and website security
- Hybrid Dental was established in 2012.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Clark County and Nye County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Las Vegas, Summerlin, North Las Vegas, Spring Valley, Paradise, Henderson, Centennial Hills, Mt Charleston, Enterprise and Pahrump
- National Provider Identifier Database (1306143847). View NPI Registry Information
- Healthgrades. View Background Information and Reviews
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Hybrid Dental on mobile
Back to top of Gum Disease
Related Posts
What To Expect During The Teeth Whitening Procedure
Are you ready to brighten your smile? If so, a professional teeth whitening procedure may be an effective treatment. This post will explain what to expect during a teeth whitening appointment, how to prepare for it, and how to maintain long-lasting results.Before beginning the teeth whitening procedure, the patient must help prepare the mouth for…
Professional Teeth Whitening V.s. Over-the-Counter Whitening Options
A bright, sparkling smile can make a long-lasting impression, boosting confidence and self-esteem. Professional teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure to help people achieve the smile of their dreams. However, some patients use over-the-counter teeth-whitening products over investing in professional teeth whitening at their dentist's office. This article will explore the differences between these…
Pros And Cons Of Root Canals
Wondering what root canals are really like? Read on to learn more. Root canals may be daunting to many people due to their poor reputation. However, what most do not know is that without a root canal, one's tooth can become completely decayed, resulting in overall loss, extreme amounts of pain, and bone deterioration long-term.…
The Pros And Cons Of Dental Implants
Considering dental implants? This method for replacing missing teeth is one that more and more dental professionals are recommending. However, with all things come a few downsides too. Keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of dental implants.Outlined below are both the pros and cons of dental implants. This information should be…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Hybrid Dental on mobile