Proven Gum Disease Solutions in Gresham, OR - Smile Today

Gum disease is one of the most common oral health problems

— and one of the easiest to overlook. What often starts as mild bleeding or swelling can quickly progress into a serious infection that threatens your teeth and overall health.

At Premier Dentistry in Gresham, OR, we believe prevention and early care are key. Our team helps patients identify the signs of gum disease early, treat it effectively, and maintain healthy gums for life.

If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum tenderness, this guide will help you understand what gum disease is, why it happens, and how to protect your smile from further damage.

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Key Takeaway:

• Gum disease is preventable, manageable, and treatable — especially when detected early.
• Early intervention helps protect your gums and prevent serious complications.
• At Premier Dentistry in Gresham, OR, our experienced team provides gentle, comprehensive periodontal care tailored to your needs.
• We’re committed to helping you restore healthy gums and regain lasting confidence in your smile.

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What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease — also known as periodontal disease — is a common but serious infection of the gums caused by bacteria in plaque. If not treated, it can damage the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. It often starts quietly as gingivitis, with mild bleeding or redness, and can progress to periodontitis, where the infection spreads deeper into the bone.

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Common Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Early detection is key to saving your gums and teeth. Watch out for these warning signs:

• Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Swollen, tender, or receding gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Changes in how your bite feels

If you notice any of these, it’s time to visit your dentist — early intervention makes treatment simpler and more effective.

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What Causes Gum Disease?

Several factors increase your risk, including:

• Poor brushing and flossing habits
• Smoking or vaping
• Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause)
• Diabetes or other systemic health issues
• Certain medications that reduce saliva flow
• Genetic susceptibility

Even with good home care, professional cleanings are essential to remove hardened plaque (tartar) that you can’t reach with a toothbrush.

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The Stages of Gum Disease

Gingivitis: Mild inflammation and bleeding, reversible with professional cleaning and good oral hygiene.

Early Periodontitis: The infection spreads deeper; gums may recede, forming pockets that trap bacteria.

Advanced Periodontitis: Bone loss and loose teeth may occur; specialized periodontal treatment is required.

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How Premier Dentistry Treats Gum Disease

At Premier Dentistry in Gresham, OR, our team uses gentle yet effective methods to stop gum disease and restore your oral health. Our treatments include:

*Professional Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing): Removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, allowing gums to heal naturally.

• Laser Gum Therapy (if applicable): A modern, minimally invasive technique that targets infected tissue and promotes faster healing.

• Antibacterial Treatment: Specialized medication may be applied to reduce bacteria and prevent recurrence.

• Personalized Home Care Guidance: We teach you how to maintain your gums with daily brushing, flossing, and mouth rinses.

Our goal is to preserve your natural teeth and prevent future complications — all in a comfortable, patient-centered environment.

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How Gum Health Affects Your Whole Body

Did you know gum disease is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and stroke? Chronic inflammation from infected gums can affect your entire body. Treating gum disease not only protects your smile but also supports your overall well-being.

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How to Prevent Gum Disease

Simple daily habits can make a big difference:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss once a day to remove hidden plaque
• Schedule dental cleanings every 6 months
• Avoid smoking or tobacco products
• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamin C and calcium

Prevention is easier (and more affordable) than treatment — and it starts at home.

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When to See a Dentist

If your gums bleed regularly, your breath smells bad, or your teeth feel loose, don’t wait. Gum disease can’t heal on its own, and professional care is the only way to reverse or stop its progression.

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FAQs — Gum Disease Treatment in Gresham, OR

Gum disease can develop quietly, so knowing the facts helps you spot problems early and protect your smile. Here are some of the most common questions patients ask about gum disease — and what you can do to keep your gums healthy.

1. Can I cure gum disease without a dentist?

• Early gum disease (gingivitis) may improve with daily brushing, flossing, and mouthwash.
• Once it reaches periodontitis, only a dentist can remove deep plaque and stop the infection.

2. What’s the best toothpaste for gum disease?

• Use toothpaste with stannous fluoride or antibacterial ingredients.
• Recommended brands: Parodontax, Crest Gum Detoxify, or Colgate Total.
• Always use a soft toothbrush to avoid gum irritation.

3. Is gum disease contagious?

• The bacteria that cause gum disease can spread through saliva, such as kissing or sharing utensils.
• Practice good hygiene and get regular dental cleanings to stay protected.

4. How do I know if I have gum disease?

• Watch for bleeding, swelling, bad breath, or gum recession.
• If your teeth feel loose or your gums hurt, visit your dentist right away.

5. What are the early signs of gum disease?

• Bleeding, red, or tender gums are early signs of gingivitis.
• With early care, gum disease can be reversed before it causes lasting damage.