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Brookline, MA dentists explain preventing gum disease as part of gum disease treatments

Gum Disease Treatments Brookline MA

Gum disease is a common dental problem among adults. Nearly 50 percent of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease, and the number increases with age. Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss. In Brookline, MA, Dr. Stan Kovtun and the team at Alpha Plus Dental Center offer gum disease treatments to protect the health of your smile.

Symptoms and stages of gum disease

The gums are the pink supportive tissues at the base of our teeth. Signs of infected gums include redness, swelling, bleeding, or sensitivity. These are the first signs of periodontal disease or gum disease. The problem starts small and becomes more destructive as the bacteria spreads throughout the gums and mouth.

Periodontal disease does not just suddenly appear or escalate. The symptoms appear gradually and then escalate if not treated. Gum disease is caused by plaque that builds up on the teeth. If the plaque is not removed with good oral hygiene practices, the bacteria spread into the gums. As the bacteria spread without treatment it leads to dental and health issues including the loss of teeth.

The stages of periodontal disease range from mild to severe. Gingivitis is the first and most common stage. Patients with gingivitis may notice that their gums have become red or sensitive. When brushing, the gums may bleed. Untreated gingivitis becomes periodontitis. Bacteria cause the gums to recede and pull away from the teeth. Bacteria are able to spread into the spaces and cause infections. Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage of gum disease. There may be damage to the teeth, bones, gums, and connective tissues.

Preventing gum disease

Gum disease comes with serious dental and health consequences. However, it is preventable. Prevention is the preferred method of treatment. Following good oral hygiene habits at home and maintaining regular visits to your dentist helps preserve the health of your teeth and gums. Your dental team can educate you and review proper home oral care to improve your overall wellness. Good hygiene tips to protect the health of your gums may include:

  • Brush your teeth at least twice per day, once in the morning and once before going to bed. If possible, brush after meals as well.
  • Floss daily to remove particles that may have accumulated between your teeth.
  • Rinse with mouthwash or an oral irrigator daily. This helps remove particles in hard-to-reach areas or along the gum line that you may have missed.
  • Replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three to six months. A toothbrush with broken or crushed bristles is not as effective as a new brush.
  • Visit your dentist every six months for cleanings and exams.

Regular dental appointments help patients prevent gum disease and keep their mouths healthy. Routine visits are scheduled every six months. This precise spacing ensures that if new issues arise, the problems can be handled promptly and effectively. Signs of gum disease can be treated before it escalates.

Gum disease treatments

If you do notice symptoms of periodontal disease, contact your dental professional even if it is between routine appointments. The earlier an issue is addressed, the better the outlook. No matter what stage of periodontal disease you are in, treatment options are available to prevent the spread of the disease. The treatment used depends upon your symptoms and the stage of your condition.

Gingivitis is reversible and easily treated. Treatment often includes a deep cleaning and maintaining good oral health habits. A professional cleaning with your dental team removes plaque and prevents the spread of bacteria. In later stages of periodontal disease, professional dental care keeps the disease from worsening.

Dr. Kovtun is experienced in treating gum disease. Treatment options may include:

  • Professional deep cleaning removes the buildup of plaque and bacteria. Cleanings may be needed more than twice per year.
  • Laser treatment can treat active infections.
  • Ozone therapy can be used as a periodontal therapy. It treats diseased tissue and is able to reach areas of the mouth that cannot be reached with other methods. Ozone is a powerful tool to safely, effectively destroy pathogens and improve circulation to speed healing.

Gum disease is preventable. Protect the health of your mouth with routine dental care. Contact Dr. Stan Kovtun and the team at Alpha Plus Dental Center in Brookline, MA. Call (617) 274-8494.

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Dr. Stan Kovtun DMD

A graduate of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (with honors), Dr. Stan Kovtun is among the select few mercury-safe and biological dentists in Brookline, MA. With expertise in general, preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, as well as periodontal disease procedures, Dr. Kovtun is committed to patient education and comprehensive treatment plans. So, patients keep their teeth for life.

Patients benefit from Dr. Kovtun's focus on long-term relationships, continuing education, and investments in lasers, digital imaging, ozone, and other technologies.

Testimonials

Successful Stories

I recommend alpha plus they will work with you when it comes to your teeth. They are very good with all their clients will make sure you are satisfied with the service. If you are on a budget they will try to make easy for you as best as they can. I been coming here since 2013 have not had one problem. Read More
Monica K.
I drive over an hour from Cape Cod for all my dental work because Dr. Kovtun is one of the few Biological dentists around. Not only is he a master at dentistry but he offers a healthier holistic approach to oral health that is so important to me. Often times, conventional dentists overlook at the importance or how oral health effects the entire body. He and his staff are super nice and I'm glad I found them!! Read More
Margarida R.
Have been a patient here for quite a while now. It was hard to find a dentist that I trusted in the area, but I've really enjoyed this practice. They tend to be conservative with their assessment, which I really value - no unnecessary treatments, and my teeth feel and look great. Read More
Monica O.
Dr. Kovtun is great. I chipped my 7-year molar, and he was able to fit me in the very next morning! He safely, quickly, and painlessly removed my old amalgam filling and prepped my tooth with a temporary fix while I wait for a beautiful new permanent one. He is knowledgeable, informative, and accomodating. The staff is super-competent and friendly. I will definitely be scheduling other dental procedures here. Excellent, excellent, excellent!! Read More
Meridith L.