Gum Disease

Almost half of adults 30 and older in the United States have gum disease, which can cause serious complications when left untreated. At Nova Dental Partners in Fairfax, Alexandria, and Woodbridge, Virginia, the skilled dental specialists detect and treat gum disease to restore a healthy, beautiful smile. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is the inflammation and infection of the soft tissues surrounding your teeth. It’s a common oral health problem among adults, as gum disease is the leading cause of permanent tooth loss. See your dentist at Nova Dental Partners if you suspect gum disease to get the treatment needed to avoid serious dental problems.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

Gum disease can cause the following symptoms:

• Pain
• Sore gums
• Bad breath
• Bright red gums
• Bleeding gums
• Receding gumline
• Pain when chewing
• Unpleasant taste in your mouth
• Change in your bite
• Loose permanent teeth
• Tooth loss

It’s highly beneficial to treat gum disease in its early stage, when it’s easiest to address.

What can increase my risk of gum disease?

Things that can increase your risk of developing gum disease include:

• Genetics
• Autoimmune diseases
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Smoking
• Stress
• Hormonal changes
• Poor oral hygiene
• Skipped dental cleanings

Long-term exposure to the saliva of someone with gum disease (by kissing them) also increases your risk, as mouth bacteria can pass from one person to another.

How is gum disease diagnosed?

The dental specialists at Nova Dental Partners examine your gums and teeth to learn if you have gum disease. They discuss your symptoms, dental history, and lifestyle. Your dentist measures the pockets between your teeth and gums. They might take dental X-rays to determine the most appropriate treatment based on the severity of your gum disease.

How does my provider treat gum disease?

Your customized gum disease treatment plan may consist of one or more of the following:

• Deep dental cleaning (root planing and scaling)
• Antibacterial mouthwash
• Medications 
• Lifestyle changes
• Pocket reduction surgery
• Laser treatment
• Bone grafting
• Gum grafting
• Guided tissue regeneration

Nova Dental Partners also provides tooth extractions to eliminate loose or severely damaged teeth. They can then insert dental implants to replace missing teeth caused by gum disease.

Aim to manage gum disease by making simple lifestyle adjustments. Visit your dentist regularly for dental exams and cleanings, floss daily, brush after meals, and don’t smoke. See your dental team at the first sign of gum changes, and call the Nova Dental Partners office anytime with questions. 

Schedule a gum disease evaluation at Nova Dental Partners by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.