Developing an infection in the gums can lead to gum disease. Left untreated, tooth loss can result. Learning to recognize the early signs of gum disease so it can be treated promptly. Dr. Michael Caserta and Dr. Adrian Basu, the family dentists at Dental Associates of Shelton, can have several ways to treat gum disease, as well as restore gum health and prevent tooth loss.

Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection. Left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas, including the bone that supports the teeth. tooth loss can occur when the bone becomes severely infected, which is why it is critical to treat gum disease as soon as possible. Early signs of gum disease include:

• Loose teeth
• Gum sensitivity
• Receding gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Red, tender, or swollen gums
• Persistent bad breath
• A periodontal abscess

If you have developed any of these signs, schedule an appointment with one of the family dentists at our office in Shelton. Several treatments exist for restoring the health of infected gum tissue.

Treatment Methods

Treating gum disease as soon as the early warning signs are detected can help prevent eventual tooth loss by restoring the health of infected gums and preventing the infection from spreading to the bone. Methods for treating gum disease include both surgical and non-surgical therapies. Our family dentists can determine which techniques are best for restoring gum health your case based on the extent of the infection and other factors. Gum disease therapies include:

• Gum Grafting: A method for replacing lost or damaged gum tissue with healthy tissue grafted from another area of the mouth.
• Scaling and Root Planing: A method for deep-cleaning plaque and tartar below the gum line.
• Periodontal Plastic Surgery: A method for reshaping damaged gum tissue to achieve a more pleasing appearance.
• Crown Lengthening Surgery: A method for exposing more of the tooth when there is excess gum tissue covering it. This is sometimes necessary when placing dental crowns over damaged teeth.

See one of the experienced family dentists at our office in Shelton right away if you have developed some of the early signs of gum disease. Starting treatment right away can restore gum health and prevent tooth loss. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Caserta or Dr. Basu, call Dental Associates of Shelton at (203) 924-4115.