Gum Disease


Gum disease is the single most common cause of tooth loss in adults, and is often undetected when it first begins as gingivitis. Plaque, which forms as a colorless film of bacteria, hardens around the gum lines of the tooth to form tartar, causing the gums to pull away from the tooth and form pockets for the disease to reside in. These pockets can be impossible to clean without professional dental help, and over time can destroy the bone structure of your tooth or teeth, leading to tooth loss and the deterioration of your dental and overall health. Following are some of the symptoms of gum disease:

  • Chronic bad breath Sensitive teeth
  • Swollen, red or tender gums
  • Gums that bleed easily
  • Painful chewing
  • Teeth that look or feel loose
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Receding gums around the teeth
  • Pus appearing between teeth
  • Buildup of calculus or tartar
  • Changes in your bite

Periodontal Disease Treatment

Scaling and root planing is a two-part procedure to treat Periodontitis. Scaling is when Dr. Sharma would remove all of the plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) above and below your gumline. It’s important that she cleans all the way down to the bottom of the pocket. Dr. Sharma would then begin the second phase of treatment, which is, root planing. Root planing is smoothing out your teeth roots to help your gums re-attach to your teeth. Planing helps the root surfaces become smooth, which keeps bacteria, plaque and tartar from re-adhering underneath the gumline. The process may take more than one appointment to make sure that your teeth are clean and healthy.

When you see Dr. Sharma for follow up treatments she will want to check on the healing of your teeth and gums. In most cases, patients who had red or swollen gums find that their gums turn pink again and bleeding from Periodontitis is reduced or completely eliminated.

If you have the symptoms of gum disease, do not neglect seeing us right away. Contact Highlands Dental Care and make an appointment with us. Dr. Sharma will meticulously examine your teeth and gums and provide the necessary dental care to restore your healthy beautiful smile.