5252 E. 82nd St., Ste. 203 Indianapolis, IN 46250

Current Patients 317.578.9666

New Patients 866.486.0230

Gum Disease Indianapolis, IN

Dr. Amy Marckese offers periodontal therapy in Indianapolis near you for the prevention and treatment of gum disease. Dentists estimate that 3 out of every 4 adults has had some form of gum disease. When left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and contribute to health risks such as heart disease and diabetes.

In many cases, patients are unaware of the presence of gum disease. Either your dentist spots it during a routine visit, or you find it after it progresses and begins to cause damage to the teeth and gums.

Depending on your specific condition, there are a variety of treatment options for gum disease. After a thorough exam, Dr. Marckese will recommend the option best suited for restoring your oral health. Dr. Marckese also provides general dentistry treatments at her Indianapolis dental office.

Preventing Gum Disease in Indianapolis, IN

Dr. Marckese emphasizes the benefits of routine dental care when it comes to reducing the risk of developing gum disease. During these visits, she and her staff take the time to offer personalized oral hygiene tips to help you maintain healthy gums between visits.


Why Do My Gums Bleed?

It is not normal for gums to bleed when brushing or flossing your teeth. Yet, a number of patients come to us with concerns about bleeding gums or sore gums. There are a number of reasons why gums bleed. In some cases, it may simply be that the patient is brushing their teeth too hard, using a toothbrush with too firm of bristles, or being overly aggressive when flossing.

The gums are an extremely sensitive tissue. You should be careful not to abrade or cut the gum tissue and cause bleeding.

Women are commonly affected by gum disease and bleeding gums during pregnancy due to hormonal changes taking place in the body. Pregnant women should continue to brush and floss but be extra cautious around sensitive gum tissue to prevent bleeding. It is important to maintain routine visits to the dentist during pregnancy to monitor gum health.

About Gum Disease

Bacteria that is found in plaque is the main cause of periodontal disease. The lack of routine six-month dental check-ups and proper periodontal maintenance follow-ups from past periodontal treatment are among the most prevalent. However, several other factors can tribute or put you at increased risk. These factors include:

  • Genetics and family history
  • Smoking/tobacco use
  • Clenching and teeth grinding
  • Hormones
  • Diabetes
  • Medications
  • Stress
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Person-to-person transmission

Dr. Marckese provides periodontal therapy at DentalSpa to treat the various stages of gum disease and will recommend appropriate treatment after a thorough exam and determination of the stage of gum disease present.

How periodontal disease is treated depends on the stage. Each patient’s treatment is designed to fit their specific condition. It is our job not only to treat you, but also to teach you proper home care to make your treatment and maintenance successful. As partners in their overall health care, we emphasize the importance of working with each patient to address their personal oral healthcare needs.

Common Signs & Symptoms

  • Red, swollen or sore gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Receding gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Mouth sores or pus between gums and teeth
  • Bad breath (halitosis)
  • Changes in the fit of dentures

If you notice any of the above signs of gum disease, schedule an appointment with Dr. Marckese to ensure effective treatment and reduce the risk of further damage or more complex dental problems.

Gum Disease Treatment Options

Dr. Marckese provides periodontal therapy to treat the various stages of gum disease and will recommend appropriate treatment after a thorough exam and determination of the stage of gum disease present.

If you have early signs of gum disease, known as gingivitis, she may recommend more frequent dental cleanings to restore your gums to optimal health. If more intensive treatment is needed, our dentist in Indianapolis, IN may recommend a deep teeth cleaning known as scaling and root planning. During this procedure, the dentist or hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from the deep pockets of the gum.

Your dentist completes the majority of periodontal treatments within two hours. Patients who have advanced signs of gum disease may require more intense treatment or surgery. In these cases, Dr. Marckese may help coordinate treatment with a local periodontist.


Periodontal Dentistry FAQs

Periodontal disease affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is a prevalent and progressive dental condition. Dr. Marckese aims to provide you with some insight into the causes, symptoms, and treatments related to gum disease. Please read the frequently asked questions below to enhance your understanding of this condition. Feel free to contact us if you have further question or concerns.

What are the stages of periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease progresses through stages. It begins with gingivitis, characterized by inflamed and bleeding gums while brushing. Without intervention, it advances to periodontitis. This stage is characterized by damage to the supporting bone, the formation of deep periodontal pockets in the gums, and loose teeth. In advanced periodontitis, severe bone loss occurs, leading to tooth mobility. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and timely intervention can prevent progression to more advanced stages and preserve gum and tooth health.

Is scaling and root planning painful?

No, scaling and root planning may sound like a surgical process, but is not any more painful than a routine tooth cleaning. Consider scaling and root planning as a deep cleaning massage for your gums. This process will remove bacteria from deep within your gums to promote healthy gum growth. You will leave the dentist office with a refreshed mouth.

Can I cure gum disease at home?

You can certainly stave off gum disease if you notice the early signs, and take action immediately. Rinse your mouth often with hydrogen peroxide and mouthwash to prevent bleeding gums from turning into gingivitis. If you have gingivitis or are in the advanced stages of gum disease, visiting the dentist is your best option for treatment.

Will gum disease cause oral cancer?

Studies have shown that gum disease can lead to oral cancer if left untreated for a long period of time. This is not common, but chance increase if you also smoke tobacco. Periodontitis causes your gums to weaken and can let harmful bacteria easily enter your system, causing infections and may lead to oral cancer.

When can I eat after periodontal treatment?

After periodontal treatment patients should avoid eating until anesthesia wears off. While sedated patients are more likely to bite their cheek or lip. After anesthesia wear off patients can resume regular eating as comfortable.

What not to do after scaling teeth?

After teeth scaling patients should wait at least two hours before eating or drinking anything. After this patients may begin eating on a soft diet ie ice cream, smoothies, yogurt. Patients may choose to chew with only one side of their mouth until they are comfortable.

Is periodontal disease linked to overall health?

Yes, periodontal disease can be linked to your overall health. Research indicates potential connections between gum disease and systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. The inflammation associated with periodontitis may contribute to these health concerns. Maintaining optimal gum health through regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene practices, and addressing periodontal issues promptly is crucial for overall well-being.

How can I prevent gum disease?

To prevent gum disease, you must maintain good oral hygiene practices. Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly to remove plaque between teeth, and use an antiseptic mouthwash. Attend regular dental check-ups for professional cleanings and early detection of any issues. Avoid tobacco, maintain a balanced diet, and manage conditions like diabetes that may contribute to gum disease. Early intervention and consistent oral care are key to preventing and controlling gum disease.

Schedule a Periodontal Exam with our Dentist in Indianapolis, IN

The best way to fight gum disease is through prevention. Don’t wait until it is too late. Contact the Indianapolis DentalSpa to schedule your next dental visit with Dr. Amy Marckese. Call us at 317-207-7171 or schedule an appointment online.