What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease in Portland ME?

You brush your teeth. You floss (most days). You go to your cleanings. But what if we told you that gum disease in Portland ME could still be sneaking in—and doing damage long before you feel a single symptom?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is one of the most common oral health conditions among adults, yet it's often misunderstood or overlooked. Unlike cavities, which tend to shout for attention, gum disease is more like a whisper, quietly breaking down the support system that holds your teeth in place. And if it goes untreated? That whisper becomes a wrecking ball.

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Periodontal Gum Disease in Portland ME

At its core, periodontal disease is an infection in the tissues that support your teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and underlying bone. When plaque (that sticky film of bacteria) isn't removed effectively, it hardens into tartar. From there, bacteria dive below the gumline, triggering inflammation and setting off a chain reaction.

In the early stages, it’s called gingivitis—you might notice redness, swelling, or bleeding when brushing. But as it progresses to periodontitis, that inflammation begins destroying the bone and connective tissue beneath. This isn’t just about sore gums—it’s about tooth loss, bone damage, and in some cases, complications for your overall health.

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The Stages of Periodontal Disease in Portland ME

Gum disease doesn't arrive all at once—it progresses in stages, each more destructive than the last:

1. Gingivitis
   This is the first warning sign. Gums may look puffy or bleed slightly when flossing. The good news? At this stage, gum disease is 100% reversible with professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene.
2. Early Periodontitis
   Now the damage has begun. You might not feel pain, but your gums are pulling away from the teeth, forming small “pockets” where bacteria thrive.
3. Moderate to Advanced Periodontitis
   As infection deepens, the bone supporting your teeth begins to break down. Teeth may shift, feel loose, or even fall out. Without treatment, the damage becomes permanent.

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What Causes Gum Disease (And What Makes It Worse)?

While plaque is the main villain, it’s not the only one. Poor oral hygiene is a leading cause, but several other factors increase your risk:

• Smoking and tobacco use
• Genetic predisposition
• Hormonal changes (like during pregnancy or menopause)
• Chronic illnesses like diabetes or immune disorders
• Certain medications that reduce saliva or affect gum tissue

Even stress plays a role. Yes—stress! It weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off gum infections.

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Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Gum disease isn’t always painful, especially in its early stages. That’s what makes it dangerous. Be on the lookout for:

• Gums that bleed easily
• Bad breath that lingers
• Gum recession (your teeth may look “longer”)
• Loose or shifting teeth
• A change in the way your teeth fit together
• Swelling or tenderness near the gumline

If you’re noticing any of these signs, don’t wait. The earlier you act, the better your chances of stopping the damage in its tracks.

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How a Periodontist Can Help You Fight Gum Disease

As periodontists, we specialize in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of gum disease—at every stage. We use advanced tools to measure pocket depth, assess bone loss, and evaluate your risk factors. From deep cleanings (called scaling and root planing) to surgical therapies like bone grafts or pocket reduction procedures, we’re equipped to restore the health of your gums and preserve your natural teeth.

We’re not just treating symptoms—we’re working to preserve the foundation of your smile and help you prevent future damage.

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Gum Health = Whole-Body Health

Here’s something most people don’t realize: gum disease doesn’t stay confined to your mouth. Research shows a clear link between periodontitis and systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and even Alzheimer’s. Why? Because the bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation elsewhere in the body.

Your oral health is deeply connected to your overall health, and taking care of your gums is taking care of you.

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You Don’t Have to Live With Gum Disease

Whether you're noticing symptoms for the first time or you've been diagnosed and need a plan, it’s never too late to act. Periodontal disease is progressive, but with the right care, it can be managed and controlled.

Take the first step: schedule a consultation with one of our top-rated periodontists. We'll evaluate your condition, explain your options, and help you build a strategy to restore and protect your smile.

Don’t let gum disease chip away at your health, above or below the surface.
Let’s work together to fight it before it does lasting damage. Your gums deserve more than just a glance. They deserve expert care from Portland Center for Dentistry in Portland ME.