Expert Gum Disease Management in Southern Maine
Specialized periodontal treatment and gum disease management using advanced laser therapy and gentle care techniques. Serving Portland, Biddeford, Saco, and all of Southern Maine with anxiety-free periodontal care.
Schedule Your Gum Disease Consultation
Understanding Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. It ranges from mild inflammation (gingivitis) to severe damage (periodontitis) that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
Early Stage: Gingivitis
Red, swollen, bleeding gums caused by plaque buildup. This stage is reversible with professional treatment and improved oral hygiene.
Advanced Stage: Periodontitis
Gums pull away from teeth creating pockets that become infected. Bone and tissue loss can occur, potentially leading to tooth loss.
Prevention & Management
Regular professional cleanings, proper home care, and early intervention are essential to prevent and manage gum disease effectively.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
🩸 Bleeding Gums
Gums that bleed during brushing, flossing, or eating
😷 Bad Breath
Persistent bad breath or bad taste that doesn't go away
📉 Receding Gums
Gums pulling away from teeth, making teeth appear longer
🦷 Loose Teeth
Teeth that feel loose or are separating from each other
🔴 Red or Swollen Gums
Gums that are red, tender, or swollen instead of firm and pink
💢 Pain or Sensitivity
Discomfort when chewing or increased tooth sensitivity
Important: If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, early intervention is crucial. Contact us today for a comprehensive periodontal evaluation.
Our Gum Disease Treatment Options
Gingivitis Treatment (Gingival Inflammation)
For early-stage gum disease with inflammation beyond a standard cleaning:
- Thorough removal of plaque and tartar buildup
- Deep cleaning of gum pockets
- Anti-bacterial rinses and treatments
- Personalized home care instructions
- Follow-up care to ensure healing
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
A therapeutic deep cleaning procedure for moderate to advanced gum disease:
- Scaling: Removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line
- Root Planing: Smooths tooth root surfaces to help gums reattach
- Precision Care: Targets specific areas of infection and inflammation
Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy (LAPT)
Advanced laser technology for optimal gum disease treatment:
- Targets and dissolves diseased tissue with precision
- Promotes faster healing and tissue regeneration
- Reduces bacteria in periodontal pockets
- Minimally invasive with less discomfort
- Can be combined with scaling and root planing for enhanced results
- Helps restore gum health and prevent further bone loss
Periodontal Maintenance
Ongoing care for patients who have received gum disease treatment:
- Specialized cleanings every 3-4 months
- Monitoring of pocket depths and bone levels
- Prevention of disease recurrence
- Early detection of any changes or concerns
- Personalized care plans based on your specific needs
Laser Bacterial Reduction (LBR)
Recommended for every maintenance appointment:
- Minimizes bacteria during cleanings
- Reduces risk of cross-contamination
- Enhances overall treatment effectiveness
- Quick, painless procedure
Why Choose Mindful Hygiene for Gum Disease Management?
Advanced Technology
State-of-the-art laser therapy and digital imaging for the most effective periodontal treatment available.
Anxiety-Free Care
Specialized in treating patients with dental anxiety in a calming, spa-like environment with gentle techniques.
Expert Hygienist
Independent dental hygienist focused exclusively on your periodontal health with personalized, judgment-free care.
Personalized Treatment
Custom treatment plans tailored to your specific stage of gum disease and individual needs.
Collaborative Care
We work closely with your dental care provider and can provide referrals to periodontists when specialized care is needed.
Patient Education
Comprehensive guidance on home care techniques to maintain your gum health between appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Disease
What are the signs of gum disease?
Common signs include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, pain when chewing, and gum sensitivity. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek professional periodontal evaluation.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque buildup on teeth. Other contributing factors include poor oral hygiene, smoking, genetics, hormonal changes, certain medications, diabetes, and other systemic health conditions.
What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths root surfaces. At Mindful Hygiene, we use laser-assisted therapy for a worry-free, comfortable experience.
How does laser-assisted periodontal therapy work?
Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy (LAPT) uses advanced laser technology to target and dissolve diseased tissue while promoting healing. It's minimally invasive, reduces bacteria, and helps restore gum health with less discomfort than traditional methods.
Is gum disease treatment painful?
At Mindful Hygiene, we prioritize your comfort. We use advanced laser therapy that is minimally invasive. Most patients report little to no discomfort during treatment.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can often be reversed with professional treatment and improved oral hygiene. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can be managed and controlled to prevent further damage, but bone loss is typically permanent. Early intervention is key.
How often do I need periodontal maintenance?
Patients with a history of gum disease typically need periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3-4 months rather than the standard 6 months. This helps prevent disease recurrence and maintains gum health.
What is the difference between a regular cleaning and periodontal treatment?
A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) is preventive care for healthy gums. Periodontal treatment (scaling and root planing) is therapeutic treatment for gum disease that goes deeper below the gum line to remove infection and promote healing.
Does insurance cover gum disease treatment?
Many dental insurance plans cover periodontal treatment including scaling and root planing. We are an out-of-network provider and can assist with paperwork to submit claims to your insurance for reimbursement.
What happens if I don't treat my gum disease?
Untreated gum disease can lead to bone loss, tooth loss, and has been linked to systemic health issues including heart disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory problems. Early treatment is essential to prevent these serious complications.
Serving Southern Maine Communities
Expert gum disease management and periodontal treatment for patients throughout Southern Maine:
Portland Area: Portland, South Portland, Cape Elizabeth, Falmouth, Westbrook, Gorham, Scarborough
Biddeford-Saco Region: Biddeford, Saco, Old Orchard Beach, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Wells, York
Seacoast Area: Berwick, Portsmouth NH area, Dover NH area, and surrounding communities
Within 40 miles of Southern Maine
Schedule Your Gum Disease Consultation
Don't let gum disease compromise your oral health. Early intervention is key to successful treatment and prevention of serious complications.
Location
Serving all of Southern Maine
Convenient for Portland, Biddeford, Saco, and surrounding communities within 40 miles
Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Flexible scheduling available
Take the first step toward healthier gums today