Causes of and Treatments for Gum Disease

Gum disease is caused by bacteria infecting soft tissue, with the result being aggravated tissue, inflammation, bleeding gums, and eventually gum recession and loose teeth. Because initial symptoms are mild, gingivitis usually goes undiscovered until moderate pockets of bacteria and debris have formed below the gum line, causing soft tissue to pull away from teeth. 

Patients who are At-Risk for Gum Disease

Many people in the United States encounter gingivitis, the beginning stages of gum disease, at some point in their lives, though it is more common in adults over the age of 30. Those who practice inconsistent health habits and do not thoroughly brush and floss their teeth each day are at an elevated risk for the negative effects of gum disease. Smokers, people with compromised immune systems, and patients experiencing hormonal changes are most prone to developing gingivitis and periodontitis.

Complications of Advanced Periodontitis

Periodontitis causes gums to become inflamed and to bleed, but additional symptoms start cropping up, and the resulting discomfort can be painful. As periodontitis develops, sticky plaque and bacteria form tartar, which deprives teeth and gums of the natural antibacterial properties of saliva, and provides the perfect habitat for colonies of bacteria to breed in pockets under the gum line. Gums begin to pull away from teeth, exposing roots.

New and Advanced Ways to Treat Gum Disease

While gum disease can be destructive to soft tissue, the latest treatments in the fight against gum recession and lost soft tissue support caused by periodontitis are minimally invasive and effective. Among those advancements is the Chao Pinhole Surgery Technique. Named for its creator, Dr. John Chao, this therapy for gum disease covers tooth roots that have been exposed by gum recession by gently pulling tissue into place.

This procedure is sometimes called a lunch-time gum lift or gum rejuvenation therapy, as it takes around an hour to complete and helps your smile look and feel healthier. The Chao Pinhole process negates the need for gum grafts or other, more invasive procedures, for correcting soft tissue recession.

Dr. James Lai is experienced in the Chao Pinhole technique to help patients recover from gum disease. For more information on this procedure, please contact our Corona dental office today.