General
Dentistry

    Gum Disease

    Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums surrounding your teeth. Gum disease is one of the top reasons for tooth loss in adults, and because it is virtually pain-free, many patients don’t know they have it. During each regular checkup, your dentist will monitor your gums for signs of recession to detect gum disease.

    Dr. David - Bolton, MA Dentist - Gum Disease
    What causes gum disease?

    Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque (a sticky form of bacteria that forms on the teeth) that isn’t removed by flossing, brushing, or regular dental cleanings. Over time plaque will continue to build up and create toxins that can damage the gums. Plaque forms just below the gum line and creates small pockets that separate the gums from the teeth.

    Periodontal disease has two stages:

    • Gingivitis — This is the early stage of gum disease, when the gums become red and swollen, and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is treatable and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.
    • Periodontitis — If left untreated, gingivitis will advance into periodontitis, and the gums and bone that support the teeth will become seriously and irreversibly damaged. Gums infected with periodontitis can cause teeth to become loose, fall out, or be removed by a dentist.
    Risk factors for developing periodontal disease, include:
    • Smoking or using chewing tobacco
    • Diabetes
    • Certain types of medication such as steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, calcium channel blockers, and oral contraceptives
    • Bridges that no longer fit properly
    • Crooked teeth
    • Old fillings
    • Pregnancy
    Dr. David - Bolton. MA Dentist - Gum Disease TreatmentNoticeable symptoms can include:
    • Gums that bleed easily
    • Red, swollen, tender gums
    • Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
    • Persistent bad breath or bad taste
    • Pus between your teeth and gums
    • Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
    • Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
    • Any change in the fit of partial dentures
    Treating Gum Disease

    Treatments for gum disease can vary depending on the severity of each individual case. Typical treatments include:

    • Non-surgical treatments such as at-home periodontal trays, and scaling and root planing (deep cleaning)
    • Periodontal surgery and laser gum surgery
    • Dental implants
    Preventing Gum Disease

    Regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are important for maintaining your health and the health of your smile. You don’t have to lose teeth to periodontal disease, and by practicing good oral hygiene at home, you can significantly reduce your chances of ever getting gum disease. Remember to brush regularly, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits to help keep your smile healthy.

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    “The girls at the front desk are the best, they are soo personable… You are very lucky to have them….I wouldn’t change anything. Overall all is great, love the staff, they truly make your visit & got out of their way to help you..” — Diane B.

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    “I am always greeted with a smile and treated more like a family member than a customer. Your personal service is outstanding.”
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    “You guys are great with new moms. It is nice that I can bring my baby to the appointment.”
    — Margaret T.

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    “I will look forward to returning! I had the feeling that everyone was pleased to see me and admire the efficient yet relaxed manner in which my appointments were conducted. The environment was peaceful and everyone was very accommodating. Thanks for a really good experience.”
    — Anne C.

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    “Office staff ,hygienist, and dentist were all amazing”
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    “Everyone always makes me feel comfortable!”
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    “Everyone is so pleasant and upbeat. The entire office made me feel welcome. That goes a long way toward making the entire experience comfortable and less stressful. I noticed the staff attitude also made other clients more friendly towards one another.”
    — Anne C.

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    “I love the educational movies you have available and your courteous, educated staff.”
    — Stan S.

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    “I really enjoyed the way I was greeted and the time that was taken to show me around the office. Thank you for making me feel at home.”
    — Joan A.

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    “The entire staff is outstanding. I always feel like I’m getting together with friends when I go there.”
    — Teresa C.

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    “I highly recommend Dr. David and her team to anyone who is contemplating having any type of dental procedure done, whether it be something very simple or preventative or the more advanced and extensive as I have experienced.”
    — Ronald B.

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    “Always great attitude from all your staff.”
    — Hazel H.

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    “You guys are wonderful”
    — Carol P.

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    “Loren was excellent as always, greeting me, helping me fill out medical history forms, and explaining financial options. Karen is a great hygenist and a very pleasant person to talk to during my cleaning.”
    — John B.

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    “Everyone was very friendly and I have never been walked around a dentist’s office before. Love the proper use of technology.”
    — Alison M.

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    “Relaxed and friendly people. You guys are fabulousssssssss”
    — Adrienne B.

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    “Staff is very friendly, welcoming, and reassuring. A dental visit is not high on my list of fun things to do, but one at Dr. David’s office is as pleasant as it can possibly be.”
    — Beverly P.

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    “Dr. David was throrough and is the nicest dentist I have met.”
    — Dan H.

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    “You know I hate getting my teeth cleaned, etc. But, your office understands and allows me to joke, laugh and relax. That’s why I come back.”
    — Jayne M.

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    “K was great and very thorough, my daughter had a good experience with Alicia. This was a great first visit. The entire staff is very engaging and positive. It’s obvious they enjoy what they do and are interested in the patients.”
    — Brigham B.

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    “The entire staff was pleasant to speak with. The office was clean and bright with flowers.”
    — Mark T.

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    “My fears were not minimized but dealt with in a compassionate manner. I felt reassured and that my team would treat me respectfully and with kindness. They respect my fear and will help me cope with it.”
    — Ellenore P.

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    “Everyone in this office is very friendly and professional, I love it there. Keep up the good work.”
    — Kirenia C.

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    “Everyone was extremely friendly and Dr. David was so helpful. She was able to correct a problem that no other dentist even acknowledged, so I was very happy!”
    — Gisella B.

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    “I really enjoyed the way I was greeted and the time that was taken to show me around the office. Thank you for making me feel at home.”
    — Joan A.

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    “Lovely people that care about their clients.”
    — Patricia B.

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