Gingivitis in Williston, VT

A mild and common form of gum disease, gingivitis, may lead to inflammation and irritation of your gums. Most frequently brought on by a buildup of plaque, gingivitis is readily treatable if it's detected soon enough. Some signs of gingivitis include odorous breath, swollen or red gums, pain around the teeth, and bleeding when brushing or flossing. When left undiagnosed, gingivitis can lead to more severe and advanced phases of periodontal gum disease. If you believe that you might have gingivitis or a more severe case of gum disease, then contact Contemporary Dental Arts in Williston, VT to schedule a dental examination with Dr. Lauren Shanard. Our goal is to restore your dental health and safeguard your smile.

The irritations that accompany gingivitis are typically due to plaque buildup brought on by poor dental hygiene. The buildup creates a bacterial film which covers the teeth and generally triggers a yellowish discoloration. If the plaque isn't addressed, the gum disease may escalate to periodontitis or advanced periodontitis. Ideal candidates for treating gingivitis are those who have swollen or tender gums, bleeding gums, discomfort while chewing, halitosis, or an infection on the gums.

Dr. Shanard will inspect your gums and teeth in your dental examination before discussing your treatment options. In most cases, she will suggest scaling and root planing. Also called a deep dental cleaning, SRP removes bacteria and plaque from your below the gumline, and then planes or smoothes the enamel to reduce potential buildup. Dr. Shanard can prescribe oral antibiotics for you to take following your SRP treatment to get rid of any lingering bacteria. Based on the condition of your gum pockets, you might require multiple SRP cleanings.

After your dental cleaning or additional therapies, your gums may be sore for a day or so. It's essential that you keep a healthy dental hygiene regimen to stop future occurrences of gum infection. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and mouthwash use. If you experience future signs of an additional gum infection, contact Contemporary Dental Arts for further treatments. 

The majority of insurance providers cover gingivitis treatment at least in part, however our office will work to confirm whether there'll be any extra expenses. Before your treatment, we'll be certain that you know your choices for financing and payment. Our financial coordinator will also ensure you understand your out-of-pocket costs as well as your options for payment, including CareCredit®, Lending Club®, and our in-house financing programs. 

If not properly treated, gingivitis can become severe and debilitating. If you're experiencing some of the side effects related to gum disease, then contact Contemporary Dental Arts to schedule an appointment to restore your dental health. Dr. Shanard and her dental team can properly treat gum disease through a customized treatment plan at our Williston, VT facility.