Gum Disease Treatment in Concord
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. At Caring Family Dentistry, our team provides thorough, patient-focused periodontal care at every stage, right here in our Concord, NH office. Whether you've noticed a little bleeding when you brush or you're worried about loose teeth, we're here to help you feel confident in your care.
Gum disease is more common than most people realize. Nearly half of adults over age 30 show some sign of periodontal disease, and left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and affect your overall health. The good news? Early treatment works, and we make the process comfortable from start to finish.
Our family, caring for yours, means we're here from your first visit through long-term preventative maintenance.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease or periodontitis, is a bacterial infection of the gums and the bone that supports your teeth. It develops when plaque and tartar build up along and below the gumline, triggering inflammation that can slowly break down soft tissue and bone.
It's often called a "silent infection" because the earliest signs can be easy to miss. Many of our Concord neighbors don't realize they have it until symptoms progress. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss, and research has connected it to heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Your gums are talking to you. Here's what to listen for:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
- Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- A receding gumline or teeth that look longer
- Loose teeth or shifting bite
- Pus or discharge around the gums
- Discomfort when chewing
If any of these sound familiar, don't wait. A quick visit to our Concord office can catch the issue early, when treatment is simplest.
The 3 Stages of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease progresses in stages. Understanding where you are helps our doctors recommend the right care.
| Stage | Common Symptoms | Typical Treatment | Reversible? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Gingivitis | Red, puffy gums; bleeding when brushing | Professional cleaning, improved home care | Yes |
| 2. Periodontitis | Gum recession, early bone loss, pockets forming | Scaling and root planing, laser therapy, antibiotics | Manageable, not fully reversible |
| 3. Advanced Periodontitis | Loose teeth, deep pockets, significant bone loss | Pocket reduction, bone or tissue grafting, laser alternative | Managed to prevent further damage |
Catching gum disease early saves teeth, time, and money. That's why regular preventative maintenance visits matter so much.
Causes and Risk Factors
Plaque is the main culprit. When it isn't removed daily, it hardens into tartar, and the bacteria beneath it inflame your gums. But several factors can raise your risk:
- Tobacco use in any form
- Diabetes and other systemic conditions
- Genetics and family history
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
- Certain medications that reduce saliva flow
- Poor nutrition and ongoing stress
If gum disease runs in your family, more frequent cleanings can make a real difference. Our team will build a schedule that fits your unique risk profile.
Gum Disease Treatment Options
At Caring Family Dentistry, we treat every stage with the least invasive option that works. Your care is always tailored to your needs.
- Scaling and root planing. Often called a deep cleaning, this is the first line of defense. We carefully remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooth the tooth roots so your gums can reattach.
- Antibiotic therapy. Topical or oral antibiotics can target stubborn bacteria and support healing after deep cleaning.
- Laser periodontal therapy. Our Solea® laser targets diseased tissue without a scalpel. It works precisely on affected areas while supporting faster recovery.
- Pocket reduction. For deeper pockets that resist cleaning, we reshape the tissue so it's easier to keep clean day to day.
- Bone and soft tissue grafting. When periodontitis has caused loss of supporting structure, grafting helps restore what's been damaged.
Our doctors will walk you through every option and help you choose a plan that fits your health goals and budget.
How Gum Disease Affects Your Overall Health
Your mouth is connected to the rest of your body. Treating gum disease supports your whole-body wellness in ways many patients don't expect.
- Adults with periodontitis have a higher risk of heart disease and stroke
- Gum disease and diabetes have a two-way relationship: each makes the other harder to control
- Research links periodontal disease to respiratory issues and cognitive decline
- Untreated gum disease during pregnancy has been connected to preterm birth
Taking care of your gums is one of the most meaningful steps you can take for your long-term health.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
A little consistency at home goes a long way. Here's how to protect your gums:
- Brush twice a day for two full minutes with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to clear plaque between teeth where a brush can't reach.
- Visit our Concord office every six months for preventative maintenance.
- Skip tobacco and limit sugary snacks and drinks.
- Manage systemic conditions like diabetes with your medical provider.
Small habits, done daily, create a healthy smile for years to come.
Why Choose Our Concord Practice for Periodontal Care
Caring Family Dentistry has been a dental home for our Concord, NH neighbors for years. Here's what sets our team apart:
- Doctors with advanced training in periodontal care and laser dentistry
- The Solea® all-tissue laser for many gum treatments, without the scalpel or sutures
- Treatment plans built around your health, comfort, and budget
- A friendly, judgment-free office with flexible scheduling for your whole family
- Payment plans available to make care accessible
We want you to feel welcomed the moment you walk in, and confident in every decision we make together.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Disease
How much does gum disease treatment cost in Concord?
Costs depend on the stage. Early treatment like scaling and root planing is typically much more affordable than advanced surgical care. Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of periodontal treatment, and we offer payment plans to help fit care into your budget. Call our office for a personalized estimate after your consultation.
What kills gum disease bacteria?
Professional scaling and root planing removes bacterial plaque and tartar below the gumline. Antimicrobial rinses, prescription antibiotics, and laser therapy can also target harmful bacteria and support healing.
How long until gum disease becomes serious?
Gingivitis can develop within days of poor oral care. Without treatment, it may progress to periodontitis over weeks to months, and advanced periodontitis typically develops over years. Regular checkups catch it early.
What kind of dentist is best for gum disease?
General dentists treat early gum disease very effectively. For advanced cases, a periodontist (a gum specialist with additional years of training) provides surgical and complex care. Our team can guide you to the right level of care.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Yes, gingivitis (the earliest stage) is fully reversible with a professional cleaning and better home care. Advanced periodontitis can't be reversed, but it can be managed to prevent further damage and tooth loss.
How long does it take to recover from gum disease treatment?
Recovery from scaling and root planing typically takes one to two weeks. Surgical treatments like flap procedures or grafting may take four to six weeks for full healing. Our team supports you through every step.
Schedule Your Gum Disease Consultation in Concord Today
You don't have to wait for symptoms to get worse. The sooner we see you, the more options we have to protect your smile and your health.
Call Caring Family Dentistry to request an appointment online, or request an appointment online. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer payment plans to keep care within reach. Our team is ready to welcome you and help you get to your healthiest smile.
Our family, caring for yours.