Gum Disease (Gingivitis)

Gingivitis is the medical term for early gum disease, or periodontal disease. In general, gum disease can be caused by long-term exposure to plaque, the sticky but colorless film on teeth that forms after eating or sleeping.

Gum disease originates in the gums, where infections form from harmful bacteria and other materials left behind from eating. Early warning signs include chronic bad breath, tender or painful swollen gums and minor bleeding after brushing or flossing. In many cases, however, gingivitis can go unnoticed. The infections can eventually cause the gums to separate from the teeth, creating even greater opportunities for infection and decay.

Although gum disease is the major cause of tooth loss in adults, in many cases it is avoidable.

If gingivitis goes untreated, more serious problems such as abscesses, bone loss or periodontitis can occur.

Periodontitis is treated in a number of ways. One method, called root planing, involved cleaning and scraping below the gum line to smooth the roots. If effective, this procedure helps the gums reattach themselves to the tooth structure.  However, not all instances of scaling and root planing successfully reattach the tooth to the gums.  Additional measures may be needed if the periodontal pockets persist after scaling and root planing

Pregnancy has also been known to cause a form of gingivitis. This has been linked to hormonal changes in the woman's body that promote plaque production.

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Primary Location

Monday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

Closed

Friday:

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Saturday:

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Sunday:

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Patient Testimonials

  • "I love it!! They explain everything to you! Very kind and respectful ."
    Maria Lucia Illescas
  • "The sanders dental group is a great full service dental group . While repairing An bringing me dental back up to par they made me feel comfortable setting my nervous tension at ease that it will be ok you will smile again , An guest what? They were correct an I can't thank the doctor's An staff enough for helping me in several ways. I perform couple old country songs this morning An felt comfortable to smile"
    Patrick Leonard
  • "Our dental hygienist Christy Falgout is the absolute BEST. I have 3 children as long as myself and every time we have a cleaning with her she makes my children and myself feel so comfortable. She is very caring and takes the time to explain what's going on and our options. She has made myself as well as my kids fear of going to the dentist completely gone. My children ages 13,9, and 4 actually enjoy going to see her. She is the reason we go to this dentist office."
    Kelly Robichaux Dufrene