Advanced gum disease is not reversible with current medical technology. Early gum disease is reversible.
If you think you might have advanced gum disease, otherwise known as periodontitis, please contact your family dentist in Pleasanton, Mona Gokani, DDS, at (925) 462-1464. We can give you a diagnosis and advise you about your treatment options.
Before your appointment, here are some resources to help you learn more about gum disease and understand what to expect. Please do not use this information to diagnose or treat yourself — it's much better to get a professional opinion. Even dentists go to dentists if they have this type of issue.
Symptoms of Advanced Gum Disease
Advanced gum disease cannot be reversed, but it can be slowed down and treated. Additionally, it starts with gingivitis, a less severe form of gum disease that can be reversed with treatment. Here are some of the symptoms typical of gingivitis:
- Bleeding gums when flossing or brushing
- Redness, swelling, or tenderness of the gums
- Bad breath
Here are some typical symptoms of the more advanced gum disease, periodontitis:
- Gums that bleed easily or expel pus
- Gums that are painful to the touch
- Receding gums (longer teeth)
- Painful chewing
- Loose teeth
If you have any of the symptoms on that last list, please make an appointment as soon as possible. We want to get started with treatment so you do not experience further gum, bone, or tooth loss. Additionally, advanced periodontal disease has been linked to other health conditions. It simply does not make sense to try and live with this condition untreated.
Prevention
The best way to prevent any type of gum disease is to see your dentist regularly. We can help catch problems before they get out of control or even stop them from happening in the first place.
You should also practice good oral hygiene as recommended by your dentist. Usually, this includes flossing and brushing multiple times per day.
Finally, if you smoke or chew tobacco, quitting will improve your oral health. These behaviors are linked to many types of oral disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis.
Treating Gum Disease With a Professional Periodontist
Advanced gum disease might not be reversible. However, there is a discipline within dentistry that focuses on identifying and treating problems with your gums.
Even if you think you might have an irreversible condition, you should see one of these dentists. New treatments are always being developed, and there are many time-tested ways to slow down the progression of the disease and alleviate the symptoms.
We are currently accepting new patients at our Pleasanton dental office, and we will try to fit you in as soon as possible if you believe you have periodontitis. Please call (925) 462-1464 to schedule your appointment today.