Brookside Dental Care

Dentist in Stockton, CA Brookside Dental Care 3031 West March Lane Stockton, CA 95219

(209) 952-8804

When you hear the term 'periodontal disease,' it means a disease is located in the gums. The dentists at Brookside Dental Care, Dr. Alexander Pritsky and Dr. Roger Lang, located in Stockton, CA, are experts in treating the two types of gum disease - gingivitis and periodontitis.

What are Gingivitis and Periodontitis?

Gingivitis is characterized as the inflammation of the gums caused by a bacterial infection. If you leave it untreated, it can lead to a more severe condition called periodontitis.

The primary cause of tooth loss in adults is gingivitis and periodontitis.

Causes of Gingivitis and Periodontitis

Our gums attach to the teeth at a point in the gum called a sulcus. Plague and food particles can get trapped in this space, causing gingivitis.

Plaque is a film of bacteria that form on teeth. As it grows, it hardens and becomes tartar. An infection evolves when plaque extends below the gum line.

If it goes undetected, gingivitis can cause the gums and teeth to separate, causing injury to the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. As a result, your tooth may become loose and unstable. You may ultimately lose your teeth if the infection continues to progress.

Risk Factors of Gingivitis and Periodontitis

When preventing gingivitis and periodontitis, it is best to know the following risk factors:

  • Smoking and other tobacco products
  • Diabetes
  • Crooked teeth
  • Broken fillings
  • Pregnancy
  • Certain medications, such as steroids and oral contraceptives
  • Genetics
  • Immune deficiencies

Symptoms of Gingivitis and Periodontitis

You may not know you have gingivitis. You may have gum disease without any symptoms, but you may also suffer from:

  • Red, tender, and swollen gums
  • Gums that bleed after flossing or brushing
  • Gums that are pulled away from teeth
  • Tooth loss
  • A change in your bite
  • Pus between teeth and gums
  • Foul-smelling breath
  • Partial dentures that no longer fit properly
  • Pain with chewing

Treatment of Gum Disease

When you visit your dentist Dr. Pritsky or Dr. Lang, at their office, located in Stockton, CA, they will be able to diagnose and treat your gum disease.

First and foremost, good oral hygiene is the best way to treat gum disease. Treatment also includes a deep cleaning of your teeth, antibiotics, and possibly surgery.

Your dentist may also prescribe several medications to treat your gum diseases, such as an antiseptic mouthwash, antibiotic microspheres, and time-released antiseptic chips.

If you think you may have periodontal disease, it is time to visit a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Please call Dr. Pritsky or Dr. Lang at Brookside Dental Care, located in Stockton, CA, because you need a reliable dentist to provide the best care. Call (209) 952-8804.


OUR LOCATIONS
3031 West March Lane, Suite 318E
Stockton, CA 95219