Gum Disease Levittown PA

Gum diseases are infections of the gums, which gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. There are numerous disease entities requiring different treatment approaches. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Daily brushing and flossing will prevent most periodontal conditions.

Why is oral hygiene so important?

Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases, (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.

Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless film, which sticks to your teeth at the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth. By thorough daily brushing and flossing, you can remove these germs and help prevent periodontal disease.

Periodontal diseases can be accelerated by a number of different factors. However, it is mainly caused by the bacteria found in dental plaque, a sticky colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If not carefully removed by daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). When plaque first forms on the teeth, it can still be removed by brusing the teeth. If plaque is not removed the very first day, it sticks to the teeth so hard that it can no longer be removed by brushing and requires removal by scraping with special instruments at the dentist’s office.

Other important factors affecting the health of your gums include:

  • Smoking

  • Diabetes

  • Stress

  • Clenching and grinding teeth

  • Medication

  • Poor nutrition

Stages of Gum Disease

There are three stages of Gum Disease:

  • Gingivitis

  • Periodontitis

  • Advanced Periodontitis

Symptoms of Gum Disease:

  • Gums that are red, puffy, swollen, or tender

  • Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing

  • Teeth look longer because the gums have receded

  • Gums that have pulled away or separated from the teeth, resulting in pockets

  • Changes in the bite

  • Pus coming out from between the teeth and the gums

  • Constant bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

Your Gums Deserve Outstanding Care

Dr. Paghdiwala can treat periodontal disease to improve your oral health. Contact us for more information.

Call us: 215-949-8000

Periodontal Disease

Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, which may cause them to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss.

Preventing Gum Disease

The best way to prevent gum disease is effective daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional examinations and cleanings. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people still can develop some form of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progress.

Treating Gum Disease

Gum Disease and the Dangers of Heart disease and Stroke

Gum Disease and Health Risks to Rest of the Body

Learn more about periodontal maintenance through our ADA Patient Education library.

We Make Dentistry Affordable on Every Budget

In order that most patients can take the advantage of modern dentistry, we offer different financing options, including:

  • We accept a lot of dental insurance plans. Our office will try to get you the maximum benefits from your insurance for the implants. You will only have to pay the portion they do not cover.

  • Credit Cards: We accept all major credit cards

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): If your employer offers FSAs, you can use your benefits at our office

  • Third-Party Lenders: We offer zero percent, interest-free financing through third-party lenders such as Care Credit and Lending Club (on approved credit).

  • Pearl Dental Membership: If you do not have dental insurance, our in-office Membership plan gives you access to discounts on all treatments for a low monthly payment.

Patient Reviews

We have developed a reputation for being gentle, thorough, and friendly, and consistently strive to achieve excellent results.

Read our reviews and testimonials from our patients to learn what sets us apart.

Read our reviews on Zocdoc