Gum Disease Treatment In Chelsea, MA

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is the result of an infection and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support your teeth. In its early stage, gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed due to irritation. In its later stage, periodontitis, the gums begin to pull away from your teeth which causes your teeth to loosen or even fall out and may cause bone loss in your jaw. While periodontal disease is mostly seen in adults, children have been known to get it. Either way, it starts with a lack of proper oral care.


Periodontal disease and tooth decay are the two biggest threats to oral health. A recent report from the Dental Association, related to periodontitis, says that 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease and that it increase with age. 70.1% of adults, 65 years and older have periodontal disease and this condition is more common in men than women (56.4% vs 38.4).

Causes of Gum Disease

Bacteria in our mouths start to infect tissue surrounding our teeth, which causes inflammation and leads to periodontal disease. When bacteria stays on our teeth long enough, it forms a film called plaque, which eventually hardens to tartar, also called calculus. Tartar build-up can spread below the gum line, which makes our teeth harder to clean. Then, only a dental health professional can remove the tartar and stop the periodontal disease from progressing any further.

Warning Signs
  • Bad breath or bad taste that won’t go away
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Tender or bleeding gums
  • Painful chewing
  • Loose teeth
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
  • Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
  • Any change in the fit of partial dentures
Risk Factors
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Heredity
  • Crooked teeth
  • Underlying immuno-deficiencies—e.g., AIDS
  • Fillings that have become defective
  • Taking medications that cause dry mouth
  • Dental bridges that no longer fit properly
  • Hormonal changes

Prevention and Treatment

Gum disease can be controlled and treated with a proper oral hygiene regimen and regular professional cleanings by our office. More severe forms of gum disease can also be treated successfully, however, they may require a more extensive treatment plan. Such treatment might include deep cleaning of the tooth root surfaces below your gums, medications, and sometimes corrective surgery. To help prevent or control gum diseases, it is important to brush and floss twice a day to remove any bacteria that causes gum disease and to book an appointment with our office twice per year for checkups, or more frequently if you have any of the warning signs or risk factors mentioned above.

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