Periodontal Disease in Grand Ledge, MI

Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is an infection in the gums that may lead to considerable oral health problems later on. There are three stages of periodontal disease that range from mild to severe. The very first phase is gingivitis, which is caused by a buildup of plaque in the gum pockets. Without treatment, gingivitis can turn into the next phase, called periodontitis, which impacts the bone and fibers that hold your tooth roots. Advanced periodontitis is the most serious phase of periodontal disease and the point at which you may be at risk of losing teeth. To treat periodontal disease, Dr. Todd K. Baum, DDS, PC provides both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options depending on the intensity of the disease, including antibiotics, scaling and root planing, gum surgery, gum tissue grafting, and tooth extraction. If you are at risk of gum disease or beginning to notice signs of infection, please reach out to our office in Grand Ledge, MI to schedule an oral health exam with Dr. Todd K. Baum.

Gum disease develops due to the presence of certain harmful bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria thrive in plaque, a soft, sticky substance, and tartar, which is hardened plaque, on the teeth. They release toxins that cause the body's immune system to break down the surrounding gum and bone tissue. If untreated, periodontal pockets, which are deep gaps between the teeth and gums, can form, leading to further accumulation of plaque, tartar, and bacteria beneath the gumline. At this advanced stage, professional dental intervention is required to remove the buildup and prevent the disease from worsening.

Periodontal disease can develop gradually, often starting with mild symptoms like red, swollen, or bleeding gums. As it progresses, individuals may experience persistent bad breath, gum recession, increased tooth sensitivity, and loose teeth. In advanced stages, periodontal disease can lead to bone loss and significant dental issues, making early detection and treatment essential for maintaining oral health.

At Dr. Todd K. Baum, DDS, PC, we diagnose periodontal disease through a comprehensive examination. During your visit, we’ll look for signs of gum disease, such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, gum recession, and plaque or tartar buildup. We’ll also measure the depth of the spaces between your teeth and gums, known as periodontal pockets. Healthy pockets are shallow, but deeper pockets may indicate gum disease. X-rays may be taken to evaluate any potential bone loss around your teeth.