Gum Disease

According to the CDC, over 47 percent of people age 35 and older have experienced some form of gum disease.

Dr. Robert Arbuckle offers periodontal therapy that can restore the health and appearance of your gums.

Our Wilton, CT, dental practice can help with prevention and treatment if you have gum disease.

What Is Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gum tissue. It's most often caused by the oral bacteria that naturally occur in the mouth. This is the same bacteria that is responsible for tooth decay and bad breath.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease. This is a mild form of periodontal disease that is typically caused by a lack of regular brushing and flossing. Common warning signs of gingivitis include:

Swollen gums
Discoloration of the gums
Soreness or the gums
Bad breath (halitosis)
Bleeding gums
Gum recession

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease caused by long-term dental neglect. As well as the signs of gingivitis, symptoms include:

Pus along the gum line
Lingering bad taste in the mouth
Loose teeth
Discomfort when biting and chewing

Gum Disease Risk Factors /

Smoking/use of tobacco products
Poor oral health
Dry mouth (xerostomia)
Advanced age
Hormonal changes
Immune deficiency disorders
Certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis)

The Dangers of Untreated Gum Disease

If your gum disease goes untreated, it can lead to a number of oral health problems and general health issues. That's why it's important to visit Dr. Arbuckle at our Wilton, CT, dental office if any gum disease symptoms or risk factors are present.

Root Canal Infection

Untreated gingivitis could lead to tooth decay and the spread of bacteria into the pulp chamber of a tooth, causing a painful root canal infection.

Dental Abscess

Advanced periodontal disease can also lead to the formation of a dental abscess. These pockets of pus can be potentially life-threatening.

Tooth Misalignment

As periodontitis progresses, it can lead to teeth becoming loose and changing their position. Crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth may develop.

Tooth Loss

As teeth loosen and shift in position, they become more prone to falling out. It’s not uncommon for people to lose teeth due to gum disease.

Using the latest tools and equipment in dentistry, Dr. Arbuckle will examine your teeth, gums, and other structures of your mouth. He will also discuss your symptoms and your concerns.

Gum Disease Treatments

Advances in general and restorative dentistry have helped dentists treat different stages of gum disease more effectively. We can develop a custom treatment plan based on your needs.

To get the infection under control, patients are often given antiseptic rinses to fight harmful bacteria. Antibiotics may even be used in some cases.

Scaling and root planing are the most common gum disease treatments. The deep cleaning of plaque and tartar around the gumline helps close periodontal pockets, protecting your teeth and preventing future inflammation.

Additional treatments for advanced periodontitis, such as laser treatment, may be recommended to remove damaged gum tissue, tartar, and plaque. The laser is also used to smooth the teeth to prevent bacteria and plaque from taking hold again.

Prevention

AND LONG-TERM PERIODONTAL CARE

Good Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is crucial for fighting gingivitis and periodontitis. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once.

Quitting Tobacco Products

Smoking and chewing tobacco increases your risk of gum disease and also affects your overall health. Consider this one more reason you should quit.

Regular Dental Visits

See your dentist every six months for dental exams and cleanings. You can also contact us if you have dental health questions between visits.

Patient-Centered Care

HELPING THE PEOPLE OF WILTON, CT, SMILE

Wilton Dental Care

Dr. Robert Arbuckle has been practicing dentistry since 1997. He is passionate about helping others. Each year, he embarks on missions to foreign countries, where he helps children in need improve their oral and overall health through dentistry.

He is also affiliated with prestigious organizations, including:

American Dental Association
Connecticut State Dental Association
Fairfield County Dental Club

If you are looking for a friendly, compassionate dentist to care for your entire family, schedule a consultation with Dr. Arbuckle today by calling (203) 762-8586 or filling out our online form.

Wilton Office

134 Old Ridgefield Rd
Wilton, CT 06897

Hours:
Friday 8 AM – 5 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Monday 8 AM – 5 PM
Tuesday 10 AM – 7 PM
Wednesday 8 AM – 5 PM
Thursday 7 AM – 4 PM

More Info

Directions

(203) 762-8586

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*Disclaimer: results are not guaranteed, may not be permanent, and can vary per individual. Some images are of models, not actual patients.

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