Frequently Asked Questions

I'm a 27yr. old female smoker that has serve gum disease. About a year ago, I had the procedure done that deep cleans under the gum line. Since that procedure was, done my gums have gotten alot worst! My gums infront of two teeth on my bottom of my mouth is almost totally gone causing me serious pain! Is there anything that I can do to help this pain? What can you suggest for my new dental procedure?

This is a great question and your follow up is critical to stopping the disease process. The gums were inflammed (swollen) and there was bacteria underneath them. This swelling covers the teeth so they appear "normal" to you, but underneath, the bacteria was destroying the bone. After the deep cleaning procedure, the gums healed (swelling went down) and the roots were exposed. The roots do not have enamel to protect them, so they are sensitive to temperature changes. It is critical for you to keep the roots as clean as they were at the dental office and you can use sensitivity toothpastes or fluoride to reduce the temperature sensitivity. If you are not able to maintain your gums without swelling, then the disease process will continue and may eventually cause the loss of your teeth. This may require more frequent visits to the dentist. Please talk with your dentist about what else you need to do.

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