Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It begins with gingivitis - inflammation and bleeding of the gums - and can progress to periodontitis, where the infection damages the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. Dr. Hickson emphasizes that gum disease is preventable and treatable, especially when caught early.

Common signs include red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, receding gums that make teeth appear longer, loose or shifting teeth, changes in your bite, and pus between teeth and gums. Dr. Hickson can detect gum disease during regular checkups even before you notice symptoms, which is why preventive visits are so important.

Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque buildup due to inadequate oral hygiene. Other contributing factors include smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes, certain medications, genetic predisposition, and conditions that weaken the immune system. Dr. Hickson will help identify your specific risk factors and create a personalized prevention and treatment plan.

Dr. Hickson diagnoses gum disease through a comprehensive examination that includes measuring the depth of pockets around your teeth, checking for bleeding and inflammation, evaluating gum recession, assessing tooth mobility, and taking X-rays to check for bone loss. We use these findings to determine the stage and severity of disease and recommend appropriate treatment.

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease characterized by inflammation and bleeding but no permanent damage. It's completely reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care. Periodontitis is advanced gum disease where infection has damaged the bone and tissues supporting your teeth. While we can treat and manage periodontitis, the damage is permanent. This is why early detection and treatment of gingivitis is so important.

Scaling and root planing, often called deep cleaning, is a non-surgical treatment for gum disease. Dr. Hickson uses specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline (scaling) and smooth the root surfaces (planing) to help gums reattach to teeth. The procedure is typically done with local anesthesia to ensure your comfort and may be completed over multiple appointments.

We use local anesthesia during deep cleaning procedures to ensure your comfort, so you shouldn't feel pain during treatment. You may experience some tenderness or sensitivity for a few days afterward, but this is manageable with over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients find treatment much more comfortable than they expected and feel relief as their gum health improves.

Gingivitis can be completely reversed with professional treatment and improved oral hygiene. Advanced periodontitis cannot be cured, but it can be successfully managed and controlled to prevent further damage. Dr. Hickson will create a treatment plan to eliminate infection, stop disease progression, and maintain your gum health through regular maintenance visits and proper home care.

Patients who have had gum disease typically need professional cleanings every 3-4 months instead of the standard six months. These periodontal maintenance visits allow us to remove bacteria before it can cause problems and monitor your gum health closely. Dr. Hickson will recommend a schedule based on your individual needs and how well your gums respond to treatment.

Yes, research shows strong links between gum disease and serious health conditions including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease, and pregnancy complications. The inflammation and bacteria from gum disease can affect your entire body. Dr. Hickson takes a comprehensive approach to your health, treating gum disease as an important part of maintaining your overall wellbeing.

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss every day, use an antiseptic mouthwash if recommended, avoid tobacco in all forms, eat a healthy diet, manage stress, and control conditions like diabetes. These steps are essential whether you're preventing gum disease or managing it after treatment. We'll provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.

Most dental insurance plans cover periodontal treatment including scaling and root planing, though coverage levels vary. Many plans cover deep cleaning at 50-80% after your deductible. Our team will verify your benefits and provide a detailed cost estimate before treatment. Treating gum disease is an investment in your oral and overall health that can prevent more costly problems down the road.