Bleeding, swollen, or receding gums are not problems to ignore. These symptoms may point to gum disease, an infection that can damage the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. Dr. Meghan Stenvall provides gum disease treatment in Charlotte, NC, to help control infection, protect your teeth, and restore healthier gums. Call 704-542-6533 to schedule an evaluation at Queen City Dental Arts.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, begins when bacteria in plaque irritate and infect the gums. In its early stage, known as gingivitis, the gums may appear red, swollen, or prone to bleeding.
Without treatment, the infection can progress beneath the gumline. The gums may pull away from the teeth, forming spaces where bacteria collect. Over time, this can lead to gum recession, bone loss, loose teeth, and eventual tooth loss.
Signs You May Need Periodontal Care
Gum disease does not always cause pain, especially in its early stages. Watch for changes such as:
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums that pull away from the teeth
- Teeth that appear longer than they once did
- Pain or discomfort while chewing
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pus or swelling near the gumline
An examination can determine whether these symptoms are related to periodontal disease or another oral health concern.
Why Gum Disease Should Be Treated
Periodontal disease affects the foundation of your smile. As the condition advances, it can weaken the tissues and bone that hold your teeth in place.
Timely care may help:
- Reduce inflammation and infection
- Slow or stop the progression of gum disease
- Protect the bone surrounding your teeth
- Lower the risk of tooth loss
- Improve breath and gum comfort
- Make brushing and flossing more effective
- Preserve existing dental restorations
How is Gum Disease Treated?
Treatment depends on how far the condition has progressed. After examining your gums and measuring the spaces around your teeth, our dentist will recommend care suited to your needs.
Treatment may include:
- More frequent professional dental cleanings
- Changes to your brushing and flossing routine
- Scaling and root planing
- Antibiotic therapy when appropriate
- Ongoing periodontal maintenance
- Referral for gum surgery in advanced cases
The goal is to remove harmful buildup, reduce bacterial activity, and create conditions that allow the gums to become healthier.
What is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a nonsurgical gum therapy used to clean below the gumline. Scaling removes plaque and hardened tartar from the teeth and root surfaces. Root planing smooths rough areas where bacteria can collect.
This treatment may be completed in sections of the mouth and can be followed by more frequent maintenance visits. Dr. Stenvall will explain what to expect based on the severity and location of the disease.
Maintaining Results After Treatment
Gum disease can return if bacteria and buildup are not controlled. Long-term management often requires a combination of professional care and consistent home hygiene.
Our team may recommend:
- Brushing twice a day with proper technique
- Cleaning between your teeth every day
- Using specific oral care products when advised
- Stopping tobacco use
- Keeping regular periodontal maintenance visits
- Managing health conditions that may affect the gums
Following the recommended schedule allows us to monitor gum depth, inflammation, bleeding, and bone support over time.
Gum Health and Preventive Dentistry
Routine dental cleanings and exams can help identify gum inflammation before it develops into more advanced disease. However, a standard cleaning may not be enough once infection has moved below the gumline.
Patients with a history of periodontal disease may need a more specialized maintenance schedule than patients receiving routine preventive dentistry.
Periodontal Care From Dr. Stenvall
Dr. Stenvall earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and completed a general practice residency at Interfaith Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York.
Her calm, communication-focused approach helps patients understand the condition of their gums without feeling overwhelmed. She will explain the extent of the disease, the purpose of each recommendation, and the steps you can take to protect your smile.
Gum Disease Treatment FAQs
Can gum disease be reversed?
Gingivitis can often improve with professional care and better oral hygiene. More advanced periodontal disease cannot be reversed, but treatment can help control it and limit further damage.
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Bleeding can be a sign of inflammation caused by plaque buildup or gum disease. It may also result from brushing too aggressively, so an examination is the best way to determine the cause.
Is gum disease treatment painful?
Comfort varies depending on the treatment and severity of the condition. Our team will explain what to expect and take steps to keep you as comfortable as possible.
How often will I need periodontal maintenance?
The schedule depends on the severity of your gum disease and how well it responds to treatment. Many patients with periodontal disease need visits more often than every six months.
Can gum disease cause tooth loss?
Yes. Advanced gum disease can destroy the bone and tissues that support the teeth, which may cause them to loosen or require removal.
Take Action to Protect Your Gums
Gum disease often becomes more difficult to manage as it progresses. An evaluation by our dentist can clarify what is happening and which treatment may help preserve your teeth and supporting bone.
Call 704-542-6533 or contact our office to schedule gum disease treatment in Charlotte, NC.