Gum Health

At Atlanta General & Implant Dentistry we offer a full range of periodontal treatments, both surgical and non-surgical, to address any problems our patients might have with their gums.

One of the most common gum diseases is known as gingivitis. Gingivitis occurs when bacteria are allowed to accumulate on the teeth at the gum line, causing the gums to become inflamed. Symptoms include red, puffy gums that bleed easily during a routine brushing. Gingivitis is a reversible condition and can often be treated with a simple professional cleaning of the teeth.

If gingivitis is allowed to go unchecked, the underlying bone may eventually become inflamed. This condition is known as periodontitis. Inflammation at this level can cause the bone to dissolve away from the teeth, and in its advanced stages, so much bone may be lost that teeth can simply fall out while chewing. Periodontitis requires more aggressive treatment than gingivitis, such as scaling, root planning or even surgery, depending on the severity of the disease.

The condition of the periodontium (gums and other tissues supporting the teeth) is as important as the condition of the teeth. Many researchers now believe that poor periodontal health can cause systemic problems and may be a causative factor in some forms of heart disease, adult onset diabetes, and rheumatiod arthritis. Our wide range of periodontal treatments helps ensure our patients' overall oral health.