Patient Infomation / Common Dental Problems
Understanding & Treating Gum Disease in Gig Harbor
Your gum health is essential to your overall well-being. Learn about the stages of gum disease, from gingivitis to periodontitis, and discover how our comprehensive approach at Kvinsland Dentistry can restore your health and prevent serious complications.
What Exactly is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a progressive infection of the tissues that support your teeth. The condition starts with mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) and, if left untreated, can advance to become a severe infection (periodontitis).
Critically, gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults and has been linked to other serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. Our commitment at Kvinsland Dentistry is to help you treat gum disease before it can damage your oral and overall health.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Understanding the progression of gum disease highlights the importance of early detection.
1. Healthy Gums
Firm, pink gums that fit snugly around the teeth and do not bleed when you brush or floss.
2. Gingivitis
This is the earliest stage, caused by plaque buildup. Gums become red, swollen, and may bleed easily. The damage at this stage is completely reversible with professional treatment and improved home care.
3. Early Periodontitis
The infection spreads below the gum line, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth and form pockets. The bacteria in these pockets begin to damage the bone that supports the teeth.
4. Advanced Periodontitis
As the infection progresses, significant bone and tissue loss occurs. Teeth may become loose, shift, and may ultimately need to be extracted. Prompt intervention can stop the disease from reaching this stage.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Contact our Gig Harbor office if you notice any of these common signs:
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Gums that bleed when you brush, floss, or eat.
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Red, swollen, or tender gums.
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Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
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Receding gums that make your teeth appear longer.
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Loose teeth or a change in your bite.
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Pus appearing between your teeth and gums.
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Pain when chewing.
Your Gum Disease Treatment Options in Gig Harbor
Our treatment plans are designed to eliminate infection and restore gum health.
Professional Cleanings & Deep Cleanings
For gingivitis, a professional cleaning may be all that is needed. For periodontitis, a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing is the cornerstone of treatment. This removes hardened plaque (tartar) and bacteria from below the gum line and smooths the tooth roots to help your gums reattach. Explore our periodontal treatment options to see how we stop the infection and protect the bone supporting your teeth.
Antibiotic Therapy
We may place targeted antibiotics directly into the gum pockets to control bacterial infection and support healing.
Surgical & Laser Therapy
For advanced cases, we may recommend surgical procedures to reduce pocket depth or advanced laser therapy to remove infected tissue with minimal discomfort and faster healing.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Prevention is the most effective strategy. You can protect your gums by:
Practicing Oral Hygiene
Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled brush, floss daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash.
Get Tips for Effective At Home Care →
Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Avoid smoking and tobacco products, eat a balanced diet, and manage other health conditions like diabetes.
Scheduling Regular Professional Care
Visit us for routine check-ups and cleanings every six months, or more frequently if you are at high risk.
Your Gum Disease Questions Answered
Is treatment painful?
No. We prioritize your comfort by using effective local anesthesia and gentle techniques. Patients typically report feeling only slight pressure during procedures like deep cleanings.
Can gum disease be cured?
Gingivitis is completely reversible. While the damage from advanced periodontitis cannot be undone, the disease can be effectively managed to halt its progression and maintain your health.
How long does treatment take?
This depends on the severity. Reversing gingivitis may take only one or two visits, while managing periodontitis requires a more involved treatment plan. We will provide a clear timeline at your consultation.
What is the cost?
Costs vary based on the treatment needed. We accept most insurance and offer flexible payment options. We will provide a detailed breakdown so you can make an informed decision.
Protect Your Gums and Your Health
Don’t ignore the signs of gum disease. Early intervention is key to preventing tooth loss and protecting your overall health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and let our caring team in Gig Harbor become your partner in achieving a healthy, confident smile.
We accept most insurance plans and offer flexible payment options to make quality dental care accessible for your family.