Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong, confident smile. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, occurs when bacteria and plaque build up around the gumline, leading to inflammation, bleeding, and, if untreated, damage to the bone that supports your teeth. It is one of the most common oral health conditions but also one of the most preventable.

At New Leaf Dental Care, we take a proactive approach to detecting and treating gum disease early to preserve your natural teeth and maintain optimal oral health.

Many people don’t realize they have gum disease until it has progressed. Recognizing the signs early can help prevent more serious complications. Early symptoms may include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Gum recession or “longer-looking” teeth
• Loose teeth or changes in your bite

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an evaluation with our dental team for a gentle yet thorough assessment.

Bleeding gums are often the first warning sign of gum disease. This happens when plaque buildup along the gumline causes irritation and inflammation. While occasional bleeding can result from brushing too hard, frequent bleeding should never be ignored. Common causes include:

• Poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup
• Hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause
• Certain medications or medical conditions
• Vitamin deficiencies, especially vitamin C or K

Treatment:

In the early stages, bleeding gums can often be reversed with improved brushing and flossing habits, professional cleanings, and antibacterial rinses. Our team will evaluate your oral hygiene routine and provide personalized care to restore gum health.

If gum inflammation (gingivitis) is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis — an advanced stage of gum disease that damages the bone and connective tissue supporting your teeth. This condition can lead to tooth mobility, tooth loss, and an increased risk of systemic health issues. Common symptoms include:

• Receding gums and exposed roots
• Deep pockets forming between teeth and gums
• Persistent bad taste or breath
• Loose or shifting teeth

Treatment:

At New Leaf Dental Care, we offer a range of periodontal treatments to stop disease progression and restore gum health. Depending on the severity, treatment may include:

• Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to remove plaque and tartar beneath the gumline
• Antibiotic therapy to control infection
• Maintenance cleanings and at-home care plans
• In severe cases, referral for advanced periodontal surgery may be recommended

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away, exposing more of the tooth root. This can cause sensitivity, increase the risk of decay, and affect the appearance of your smile. Common causes include:

• Gum disease and inflammation
• Aggressive brushing
• Teeth grinding or clenching
• Misaligned bite or crooked teeth
• Aging

Treatment:

Mild gum recession may be managed with professional cleanings, desensitizing treatments, and improved home care. For more advanced cases, soft-tissue grafting may be recommended to rebuild the gumline and protect exposed roots.