When it comes to taking care of your dental health, it’s important not to forget about your gums. Gum disease starts off as gingivitis, and it can develop to the more serious form of periodontitis, where the infection actually gets to your bone and can even lead to tooth loss. To put it simply, the sooner you treat gum disease, the better! At Jackson Smiles Family Dentistry, we offer different gum disease treatment options so we are able provide personalized gum therapy.

Signs of Gum Disease

If you are wondering if you have gum disease, here are common signs and symptoms to look out for:

• Red or swollen gums
• Tender gums
• Bleeding gums
• Loose teeth
• Tooth sensitivity
• Persistent bad breath

Have one or more of the above? Please contact Jackson Smiles Family Dentistry so we can help get you back to great health!

Gum Disease Treatments

There are a variety of different treatment options available if you are dealing with gum disease. After performing an examination of your gum health and seeing how serious your condition is, Dr. Patel will be able to recommend which is best for you.

Scaling & Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is also known as a deep cleaning. During this non-surgical treatment, we’ll first remove any bacteria and tartar build-up from your teeth, both above and below the gum line. Then in the second step, we’ll smooth out any rough spots on the roots of your teeth where bacteria could otherwise get trapped and lead to gum disease.

Arestin® Topical Gum Treatment

Arestin® is an antibiotic topical treatment that we apply directly onto your gums in a quick, painless procedure. This powder releases a powerful antibiotic steadily over around three weeks to kill off the bacteria at the source of the disease. We often apply Arestin after a scaling and root planing.

Laser Gum Therapy

A revolutionary advancement in dentistry, laser gum therapy offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical techniques. Using a dental laser, we’ll precisely target the infected areas and remove any damaged tissue. Some of the benefits include how it’s a faster, more comfortable procedure and how you’ll experience a speedier recovery as well as longer-lasting results.

Gum Disease FAQs

What are the stages of gum disease?

Gum disease progresses in stages, starting with gingivitis, which causes red, swollen, or bleeding gums. If untreated, it advances to mild and moderate periodontitis, where bone loss begins. Severe periodontitis involves significant bone and tooth loss. We always monitor gum health closely and recommend treatment based on the stage and severity.

Can periodontal disease be cured?

Early-stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, can often be reversed with professional treatment and improved home care. More advanced periodontal disease cannot be fully cured, but it can be effectively managed. Ongoing periodontal therapy and maintenance visits help control infection, prevent further bone loss, and protect remaining teeth for the long term.

What causes gum disease?

Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria along the gumline. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, genetics, certain medications, and health conditions like diabetes can increase risk. When plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, it hardens into tartar and triggers inflammation. Our team focuses on early detection to prevent progression as much as possible.

How often should I schedule periodontal maintenance visits?

Patients with a history of gum disease typically need periodontal maintenance every three to four months. These visits help control bacteria, monitor healing, and prevent flare-ups. Dr. Patel customizes each patient’s specific schedule based on your condition, response to treatment, and overall oral health to ensure long-term stability.

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