Periodontics & Gum Health

Stages & Symptoms of Gum Disease

Gum disease is difficult to detect it the early stages, and many patients only notice symptoms once it has progressed.

If left untreated, gum disease typically progresses in following three stages:

• Mild Periodontitis (Gingivitis)

  Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease as plaque and its toxin by-products irritate the gums.

  Common symptoms include:

  Tender, sore gums

  Inflamed, swollen gums

  Bleeding gums

• Periodontitis

  In its next stage, Periodontitis, plaque hardens into tartar and continues to build up in the mouth.

  Common symptoms include:

  Mild gum recession

  Bacteria-filled pockets form between the gums and teeth

  Slight to moderate bone loss in the jaw

• Advanced Periodontitis

  In the most advanced stages of periodontitis, the teeth lose more support as the gums, bone, and periodontal ligament continue to deteriorate. 

  Common symptoms include:

  Loose or falling out teeth

  Severe gum recession

  Moderate to severe bone loss in the jaw 

Soft Tissue Management

At York Lanes Dental Office we offer a Soft Tissues Management treatment program to resolve the effects of gum disease, prevent it from progressing, and maintain your oral health.

Scaling & Root Panning

For patients with mild gum disease, a deep cleaning performed by your dental hygienist may be enough to reverse it. The hygienist will remove the plaque and tartar around and below the gum line, and smooth out any rough areas left behind.

Laser Periodontal Therapy

Laser Periodontal Therapy (LPTTM) is a non-surgical alternative to gum surgery. It offers a less painful, less traumatic way to treat gum disease at any stage using dental lasers.

Bone & Gum Grafting

For patients with more advanced forms of gum disease, surgical gum grafting may be necessary to reverse the effects of a receding gum line. In some cases, surgical bone grafting may be also necessary to regenerate any bone loss that has occurred. 

Pinhole Gum Therapy

The Pinhole Surgery technique is a scalpel-free, suture-free solution for repairing receding gums caused by gum disease. During the procedure, a needle is used to make a small hole in the gums. Through this pinhole, special instruments are used to gently loosen and slide the gum tissue to cover exposed tooth roots.