Gum Disease

Gum disease starts out as swelling of the gums (the soft tissue) around your teeth. (You may have heard the term “gingivitis”.)  It is caused by the bacteria in plaque, a sticky, colorless film that forms on your teeth.  The plaque bacteria have toxins that inflame the gums.  Gum disease is a slow, progressive infection that is not always easy to see and can be painless.  The earlier gum disease is caught, the easier it is to treat.  Left untreated, gingivitis progresses from the gums to the bone around the teeth resulting in tooth loss.  That is why it’s important to see your dentist regularly.

Dr. Schillinger will explain the many options available to patients today to treat gum disease.  Advanced techniques include non-surgical treatments,  localized antibiotic administration and replacement of teeth using the latest implant technology.

Our primary emphasis however is prevention and education.