Periodontists near me
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Gum disease treatment
Recommended health tests for Gum disease
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Gum disease
Gum disease, known medically as periodontal disease, is a common yet often preventable infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. It ranges from simple gum inflammation, known as gingivitis, to severe disease leading to major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In worst cases, teeth are lost. Whether gingivitis or periodontitis, gum disease is a significant health concern, affecting millions worldwide. The prevalence of gum disease varies, but it significantly increases with age, making it a major oral health concern in both developing and developed countries.
Causes
Gum disease is primarily caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If plaque is not removed through daily brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which is much harder to remove. Smoking is another significant risk factor and can make gum disease worse. Additional causes include genetic predisposition, diabetes, hormonal changes in females, other illnesses and their treatments, and medications that reduce the flow of saliva.
Signs and symptoms
- Red, swollen, or tender gums - Bleeding gums during or after tooth brushing - Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth - Receding gums, making the teeth look longer than normal - Loose or separating teeth - A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite - Pus between your teeth and gums
Diagnosing Gum disease
Diagnosing gum disease usually involves a dental professional conducting a thorough oral examination. This includes checking for any signs of inflammation, measuring the depth of the pockets around your teeth (the space between the tooth and the gum), taking dental X-rays to observe the health of the bone beneath your gums, and reviewing your medical history to identify conditions or factors that might contribute to your symptoms.
Prevention and natural treatment
Preventing gum disease centers on maintaining excellent oral hygiene. This includes regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and visiting the dentist for check-ups and cleanings. Diet also plays a critical role; eating a balanced diet and limiting sugar intake can help prevent plaque buildup. In treating gum disease, the focus of functional medicine is on controlling the infection and restoring the healthy balance of the microbiome in the mouth. This may involve deep cleaning methods such as scaling and root planing, where tartar is removed from above and below the gum line, and rough spots on the tooth root are made smooth. Natural remedies include using essential oils like tea tree or peppermint for their antimicrobial properties, rinsing with salt water to reduce inflammation, and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet. Supplements such as vitamin C, which helps with gum regeneration, and Coenzyme Q10, an antioxidant that may help with gum healing, can also be beneficial. However, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or supplement.
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