5775 Willow Ln., Lake Oswego, OR 97035 
503-699-6699 Dr. Patrick Morrissey will examine your mouth for signs of periodontal disease during your regular appointments, and if you are diagnosed, we will work one-on-one with you to create a treatment plan that meets your needs. We are committed to helping you regain your oral health and smile. Call Boones Ferry Dental at 503-699-6699 to make an appointment with our periodontist and learn more about gum disease treatment in Lake Oswego, Oregon.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an oral condition affecting the gums and supporting structures in your mouth. It starts as a bacterial infection, and if left untreated will gradually progress until it has destroyed your gums and bone structure. Our periodontist and team will check for signs of gum disease during each of your regular dental exams, and if you are diagnosed we will work with you to create a treatment plan that will manage the disease and help you regain your oral health.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by harmful bacteria trapped in plaque. As plaque hardens into calculus (tartar), the disease becomes more established, and your gums become infected and inflamed. This eventually leads to the development of periodontal pockets (small spaces that harbor the disease-causing bacteria), gum recession and other problems associated with the disease.
What Are The Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Common symptoms of gum disease include:
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bleeding of the gums while brushing, flossing or eating
- Gum recession
- Loose or separating teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Pus between your gums and teeth
- Sores in your mouth
- Changes in your bite or in the fit of oral appliances
Treating Gum Disease
There are a wide range of treatments available to manage gum disease and improve your oral health. Your treatment plan will depend on the severity of the disease. Gum disease can usually be treated successfully in the early stages of development, but if it progresses to a more advanced and damaging stage it may never be fully removed from your mouth. Our periodontist will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your unique needs. Some treatments we may recommend include:
Gum Disease and Your Health
Your oral and overall health are closely connected, and no condition makes this as obvious as periodontal disease. Gum disease increases your risk of developing or exacerbating a number of serious medical conditions, including diabetes, stroke, respiratory disease and osteoporosis. If you have any of these conditions you are also at an increased risk of developing gum disease. Gum disease has also been linked to pregnancy risks, such as premature and low birth weight babies.
We recommend that you visit our periodontist regularly if you are pregnant or if you have a systemic medical condition to help prevent gum disease or keep your condition under control.
Schedule Your Consultation
We invite you to contact our team today to schedule a consultation with our experienced periodontist and learn more about gum disease treatment. We are committed to helping you maintain your oral health and smile.