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Montgomery County Office
Ample free parking in front of building
301-869-8884
903 Russell Ave. 
Suite #300 
Gaithersburg, MD 20879
Dr. Gerard Boquel, DDS
Washington, DC Office
located above the Dupont South Metro Station
202-887-5441
1350 Connecticut Ave NW  Suite #305
Washington, DC 20036
admin@dupontdds.com
Board Certified in Periodontology and Dental Implant Surgery 
Gingivitis & Periodontitis

GINGIVITIS & PERIODONTAL TREATMENTS

Gingivitis and periodontitis are gum diseases caused by accumulation of bacteria along and beneath the periodontal tissues. Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease, beginning with minor symptoms like gum inflammation. Although it is highly treatable, gingivitis is often left untreated and allowed to progress into an advanced stage of periodontal disease known as periodontitis. Though still treatable, periodontitis requires more invasive treatments to prevent total tooth loss. The symptoms of gum disease may include:
  • Reddened or swollen gums
  • Gum tenderness
  • Gums that easily bleed
  • Persistently bad breath
  • Receding gum line
  • Gums that have pulled away from the base        of the teeth, forming ‘pockets'
  • Loose teeth
Smiling Man - Periodontics in Gaithersburg and Washington, DC

Signs & Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease – also known as gingivitis and periodontitis – is most easily identified by swollen or puffy gums that are tender when touched. In its beginning stages, periodontal disease often causes no symptoms at all and you may not even notice the gradual changes. With time, however, bacteria begin causing inflammation in the gums, which may result in redness and easy bleeding. Periodontal disease may also cause chronic bad breath and mouth sores. As bacteria continue to proliferate, the teeth may begin to appear longer due to a receding gum line. Eventually, pockets may begin to form between the gums and teeth, which can lead to loosened teeth or total tooth loss. 

DID YOU KNOW?

That gingivitis and periodontitis are both highly preventable diseases? Although approximately half the U.S. adult population suffers from some form of gum disease, many could have prevented it by brushing and flossing regularly, as well as visiting the dentist for periodic exams and professional teeth cleanings. Avoiding bedtime snacking or consuming foods that are high in sugar can also prevent the onset of periodontal disease, as can avoiding tobacco products, such as cigarettes.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need treatment for gingivitis or periodontitis?

If you are experiencing any symptoms of gum disease, seek treatment immediately. Failure to treat periodontal disease can allow the condition to progress, eventually causing irreversible damage, such as tooth loss.

What should I expect during gingivitis or periodontitis treatment?

Your treatment will depend on the extent of your gum disease. If you are diagnosed with the beginnings of gingivitis, you may be given a take-home treatment or undergo an in-office scaling and root planing treatment. If your periodontal disease is more advanced, you may need gum surgery to remove harmful bacteria and restore damaged gums. In-office treatments are performed under a local anesthetic and sometimes sedation to reduce procedural discomfort.

Will I need to follow any special instructions after my treatment?

Yes. You may be prescribed an at-home antibiotic to take following your treatment. Your periodontist may also recommend consuming only soft foods in the days following your procedure, as well as using ice packs to reduce swelling and inflammation. Exact instructions will vary according to the type of treatment, so contact your periodontist's office for further questions about post-procedural self care.
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