It’s estimated that nearly 50 percent of Americans have gum disease. Thus, the next time that you pull your toothbrush from your mouth and notice traces of red, you can rest assured that you’re not alone in struggling to combat this condition. You’re also not without assistance. We here at the Nashville Periodontal Group want to educate you on the ins-and-outs of gum disease, as well provide you with the means to both prevent it and treat it.

The Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease is a foe that launches its attack on your mouth gradually. Knowing the steps in its progression can help you take the right course of action in combating it:

  • Gingivitis: During the first stage of gum disease, bacteria and plaque have been allowed to build up around the gum line. Aside from swollen gums, gingivitis can also cause halitosis and an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Gingivitis can be reversed at this stage, if proper care by a periodontist.
  • Periodontitis: If gingivitis continues to progress, periodontitis can develop. During this stage, pockets of bacteria become trapped between the teeth and gums and the structures between your teeth can be destroyed. Irreversible damage has been done at this stage.
  • Advanced Periodontitis: In the final stage, the bacteria that was allowed to grow will likely spread to the connective tissues and bones that support the teeth, and may also begin to have systemic effects on the body. Tooth loss is common at this stage, and immediate treatment is recommended.

What is LANAP®?

The LANAP® protocol allows the doctors at Nashville Periodontal Group to fight gum disease without traditional invasive treatments. LANAP® uses a small laser (about the width of a few human hairs) to get in between the gums and the teeth and remove the buildup that leads to periodontitis. Most of the time this can be done in just a couple quick sessions, allowing you to see almost immediate improvements to your smile.

It’s our mission to end the epidemic of bleeding gums in Nashville, TN. Thus, when gum disease strikes you, fight back by scheduling an appointment with us and allowing our team to provide you with the most advanced treatment available. Working together, we can get your smile back to being bright and beaming in no time.