Gum Disease

Receding gums in a ten-year-old girl can be caused by several factors, including poor dental hygiene leading to gum disease, genetic predisposition, or hormonal changes associated with puberty. Other contributing factors might include aggressive brushing, misaligned teeth, or certain medical conditions. It's important for her to see a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent further gum recession. Regular dental check-ups and good oral care practices can help maintain gum health.

Gums can exhibit some regenerative capabilities, especially if the damage is mild, such as minor inflammation or gingivitis. Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, can promote healing and prevent further damage. However, more severe conditions like periodontitis may require professional treatment to restore gum health. It's essential to consult a dentist for proper evaluation and care.

A mucogingival problem exists when there is a discrepancy between the position of the mucogingival junction and the level of the gingival tissue, which can lead to issues such as gingival recession, inadequate keratinized tissue, or a lack of attached gingiva. These problems may result in aesthetic concerns, increased plaque accumulation, and a higher risk of periodontal disease. Clinically, mucogingival problems can be assessed through measurements of tissue dimensions and the relationship between the gingiva and the underlying mucosa. Treatment may involve surgical interventions to restore optimal tissue balance.

Yes, there is a dental school in St. Petersburg, Florida. The St. Petersburg College offers a Dental Hygiene program, which prepares students for careers in dental hygiene. However, for a full dental degree (DDS or DMD), students typically need to attend dental schools located in other cities or states.

While cavities and gum disease are two different dental issues, they are closely related — and one can increase the risk of the other. At the Center for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy, we help patients understand how these conditions are connected and provide expert care to protect your oral health.

What’s the Link?

Cavities are caused by tooth decay from bacteria that create acid and erode enamel.

Gum disease begins with plaque buildup along the gumline, leading to inflammation (gingivitis) and, if untreated, advanced periodontal disease.

If a cavity is left untreated, bacteria can spread and irritate nearby gums, potentially contributing to gum disease. Likewise, gum recession from periodontal disease can expose tooth roots, making them more vulnerable to decay.

Preventive Care Matters

At Periodontal and Implant Surgeons of Houston, we focus on early detection, prevention, and advanced treatment for both cavities and periodontal disease — helping you maintain a healthy smile for life.

Schedule a consultation today to protect your teeth and gums with expert care from the leaders in periodontal health.

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. The treatment for periodontal disease typically depends on the severity of the condition and may involve both non-surgical and surgical procedures.

At Periodontal and Implant Surgeons of Houston, we offer comprehensive and personalized care to effectively manage and treat all stages of periodontal disease. One of the most common concerns associated with periodontal disease is receding gums, and we specialize in receding gums treatment to restore both health and aesthetics.

Common Treatments for Periodontal Disease Include:

Scaling and Root Planing

This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces, promoting gum reattachment and healing.

Antibiotic Therapy

Local or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce bacterial infection and inflammation.

Gum Grafting

For patients with receding gums, gum graft surgery can cover exposed roots, reduce sensitivity, and improve appearance.

Laser Therapy

Advanced laser treatments may be used to remove diseased tissue and bacteria with minimal discomfort and faster recovery time.

Pocket Reduction Surgery

In more advanced cases, surgical intervention may be needed to clean infected areas beneath the gums and reduce pocket depth.

Dental Implants and Regenerative Procedures

If tooth loss has occurred, we offer expert implant placement and bone regeneration techniques to restore your smile.

At Periodontal and Implant Surgeons of Houston, our board-certified specialists are committed to helping patients achieve optimal oral health. If you're experiencing symptoms such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, it's important to seek receding gums treatment early to prevent further complications.

Schedule your consultation today to learn more about our advanced treatments for periodontal disease and how we can help you restore a healthy, confident smile.

Everyday life for a person with gum disease can be uncomfortable and challenging. They may experience symptoms such as swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath, and pain while eating or brushing their teeth. This condition can also lead to increased dental visits for treatment and maintenance. Additionally, individuals may feel self-conscious about their oral health, impacting their confidence in social situations.

Yes. Smoking already increases the risk of gum disease because it weakens your immune system and reduces blood flow to your gums. If you also have a chipped tooth, bacteria can collect in the rough edges or cracks, making it easier for infection to start. Together, these factors raise the chance of developing gum disease. Quitting smoking and repairing the chipped tooth promptly are the best ways to protect your oral health.

The cost of an emergency room visit for stitches in a lip can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, hospital policies, and whether you have insurance. On average, without insurance, such a visit may range from $150 to $3,000, with the total including the doctor's fee, facility fee, and any additional treatments or tests. If you have insurance, your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your plan's coverage and deductible. It's advisable to check with the specific hospital and your insurance provider for more accurate estimates.

Excessive drooling itself does not directly cause gingivitis, which is primarily an inflammatory condition of the gums caused by plaque buildup due to poor oral hygiene. However, drooling can contribute to conditions that may lead to gingivitis, such as increased moisture in the mouth promoting bacterial growth. Additionally, if drooling is related to underlying health issues or medications that affect oral hygiene, it could indirectly increase the risk of developing gingivitis. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial in preventing gum disease regardless of drooling.

Gingivitis is primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. The main types of bacteria involved include Streptococcus mutans, Actinomyces, and various species of Porphyromonas and Tannerella. These bacteria lead to inflammation of the gums when their toxins irritate the surrounding tissue, resulting in swelling, redness, and bleeding. Maintaining good oral hygiene helps control these bacteria and prevent gingivitis.

Yes, certain products like toothpaste and mouthwash are specifically designed for brushing teeth and maintaining oral hygiene. However, it's essential to use items that are safe and effective for dental care. Always consult with a dentist for recommendations on the best products for brushing your teeth. Avoid using non-dental items, as they may damage teeth or gums.

The periodontal ligament (PDL) can be seen on a radiograph as a thin radiolucent line surrounding the roots of the teeth. This line represents the space between the root cementum and the alveolar bone, where the PDL fibers attach the tooth to the bone. The visibility of the PDL may vary depending on the quality of the radiograph and the position of the teeth. In healthy conditions, the PDL appears uniform and well-defined; any changes may indicate periodontal disease or other dental issues.

Rubbing alcohol is not recommended before a mouth swab test. It can irritate the oral mucosa and potentially affect the results of the test by contaminating the saliva. It's best to avoid using any substances in the mouth prior to the test to ensure accurate results. If you have concerns, consult with the testing provider for guidance.

White sore inflamed taste buds on the tongue can indicate a condition such as oral thrush, a viral infection, or a reaction to an irritant. The unquenchable thirst may be a result of dehydration, which can occur if you're not eating or drinking enough due to discomfort. Other potential causes could include systemic issues like diabetes or an autoimmune condition. If symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

In the word "hyperplasia," the suffix "plasia" refers to the formation, development, or growth of tissue or cells. Specifically, "hyperplasia" denotes an increase in the number of cells in a particular tissue, leading to its enlargement. This condition can occur as a response to various stimuli, such as hormonal changes or increased demand on a tissue.

Yes, if you have gum disease, it can take longer for your gums to heal after an extraction. Gum disease may compromise the tissue's ability to regenerate and increase the risk of complications, such as infection. Additionally, underlying inflammation and reduced blood flow can hinder the healing process. It's important to follow your dentist's post-operative care instructions to promote healing.

Gingivitis primarily affects the oral or dental system, specifically the gums. It is an inflammatory condition caused by the accumulation of plaque on the teeth, leading to symptoms like redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more severe periodontal disease, impacting overall oral health. Additionally, it can have implications for systemic health, as inflammation from gingivitis may influence conditions in other body systems.

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, begins with the accumulation of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—on the teeth. If not removed through proper oral hygiene, this plaque can harden into tartar, leading to inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). As the condition progresses, it can damage the tissues and bone supporting the teeth, potentially resulting in tooth loss. Factors such as smoking, diabetes, and hormonal changes can exacerbate gum disease.

The Delta Dental PPO plan typically covers gum disease treatment at varying levels depending on the specific services provided. For instance, preventive services like cleanings may be covered at 100%, while periodontal treatments could be covered at around 50% to 80% after the deductible is met. It's best to review the specific plan details or contact Delta Dental directly for the most accurate coverage percentages.

Yes, gum disease can increase the risk of stroke. The inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease may contribute to atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in blood vessels, which can lead to stroke. Additionally, the systemic inflammation caused by gum disease can impact overall cardiovascular health. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for reducing these risks.

Periodontal attachment loss is proven through a clinical examination that measures probing depth and clinical attachment level (CAL). This involves using a periodontal probe to assess the depth of the sulcus or pocket around each tooth. The CAL is calculated by measuring the distance from the cemento-enamel junction to the bottom of the pocket, and a loss is indicated when this measurement exceeds normal levels. Radiographic evaluations may also complement this assessment by showing bone loss associated with periodontal disease.

Prescription drugs are not always safe to take while driving, even if they are prescribed by a doctor. Some medications can impair your ability to operate a vehicle, leading to reduced reaction times and altered judgment. It's important to read the warnings provided with the medication and consult your doctor or pharmacist about any potential side effects that could affect your driving. Always prioritize safety and consider alternative transportation if you're unsure.

After brushing your teeth, consuming sugary drinks like Hollicks can contribute to tooth decay if you don't brush again afterward. The sugar and acidity can weaken enamel and foster plaque buildup. It's best to wait at least 30 minutes after drinking to brush again, as brushing immediately can damage enamel softened by the acids. Rinsing your mouth with water can help mitigate the effects until you can brush again.

A dentist typically does not need to open up your gums unless there is a specific issue, such as severe gum disease, an abscess, or the need for a surgical procedure. Most routine dental examinations and cleanings can be performed without any surgical intervention. If gum surgery is necessary, the dentist will explain the reasons and the procedure involved. Regular check-ups help prevent conditions that might require such measures.