Signs Of Periodontal Disease And How We Can Help

You notice a little blood in the sink when you brush your teeth. Should you feel alarmed? Those red streaks and specks may indicate agum disease dental health problem. Medically termed periodontal disease, gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss among American adults, says the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Further, periodontitis impacts systemic health. That's why Dr. Kevin Thomas and Dr. Aaron Chenette, family dentists at Cohasset Dental, urge you to pay attention to your teeth and your gums, recognizing the symptoms of gum disease and what they can do to your well-being.

What is gum disease?

From its mildest form--gingivitis--to its most aggressive and destructive form--periodontitis, gum disease involves infection and inflammation. How does it start? Besides hereditary factors or the toxins found in cigarette smoke, poor oral hygiene ranks high on the list of causes.

When we eat starchy and sugary foods, sticky plaque forms on and between our teeth and under the gum line. When not routinely removed by brushing, flossing and professional cleanings at Cohasset Dental, that bacteria-filled plaque hardens into tartar, and the damage starts. Initially, you may not notice anything at all, but your Cohasset family dentist and hygienist can see evidence of gum disease right away.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

There are many symptoms, including:

  • Redness, swelling and bleeding of gum tissue
  • Deep pockets (>3mm) between the gums and tooth surfaces
  • Persistent bad breath, or halitosis
  • A long tooth appearance as gums and bone recede
  • Exposed tooth roots
  • Pus at the gum line
  • A shift in dental bite or in denture fit
  • Loose teeth
  • A new gap between teeth

If you notice signs such as these, please call Cohasset Dental right away for an appointment. Unfortunately, research indicates that gum health and systemic health are connected.

How does the family dentist in Cohasset treat gum disease?

The most common, and very effective, treatment is a deep cleaning at the dentist's office. Also called tooth scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning scrapes away plaque and tartar from beneath the gums. The dentist also may instill antibiotic medication to heal the infection.

If you have gum problems, Dr. Thomas or Dr. Chenette will set up a treatment plan individualized to your unique needs. Once your gums are healthier, you'll continue to visit Cohasset Dental for routine periodontal maintenance to keep your mouth healthy.

Make an appointment

If you see symptoms of gum disease in your mouth or need your regular check-up and cleaning, please contact Cohasset Dental for an appointment. Your teeth, gums and overall well-being will be the better for it. Call (781) 383-9393 today.

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Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

7:00 am-8:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-1:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

  • "I went to Cohasset Dental because my tooth was infected, they saw me right away! Since then they are now my primary dentist. They are extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and they make the whole dental environment less intimidating. I think finding the right dentist is like finding the right mechanic -- I'm happy to say that I have found my dentist. I highly recommend them."
    Heather Rose Marshall
  • "It's really nice to be able to say "I love my dentist!" -- the entire experience at Cohasset Dental is always friendly, professional & accommodating. The front office staff, the hygienists, Dr. Chenette himself -- a truly exceptional team!"
    Jenni Denegri
  • "I am a very timid dental patient. Before going to Cohasset Dental this year, it had been almost 10 years since I had stepped foot in a dentist office. Needless to say, I was very nervous at my appointment.
    Each staff member at the office was so welcoming and kind, I could not help but smile. The woman who cleaned my teeth was very understanding of my fear and worked with me to have a positive experience.
    Unfortunately for me, my cleaning revealed that I needed my old silver fillings replaced. I was excited. But the filling replacements were nothing like what remember. It was quick, painless, and semi-enjoyable (tvs are available for your watching pleasure).
    I would definitely recommend going to Cohasset Dental. And if you are a scared like me, definitely go. They will put your fears at bay and give you an enjoyable memory."
    Karina Tuting
  • "Cohasset Dental is outstanding in many ways; one, its people who are kind, accommodating, and highly professional; two, its cleanliness and caution, especially during covid times; three, Dr. Chenette is a master dentist, but kind and gentle, as well. Highly professional team that respects individual needs. Thank you all for your compassionate service!"
    kathie lee
  • "This was my first visit to Cohasset Dental and it was one of the best dentist visits I've ever had. The reception staff is welcoming and helpful. Brynn did a great job taking my x-rays. Dr. Chenette has a wonderful chair side manner. He even cleaned my teeth instead of the hygienist. He did a good job explaining how my teeth grinding effects my jaw and muscles and how he can help me with the problem. A few minor negatives not worth mentioning. I highly recommend this practice."
    Charlotte Keefer
  • "Having recently moved to the area, I was in search of a new dental practice. Looking no further. This office is great! The entire staff is very professional, helpful and courteous from the moment you walk in."
    Bruce Gehrlein
  • "I became a patient on Wednesday,had some pain overnight and was sitting in the chair Thursday morning at 9am,! Thank you all. Greeted at the door by staff and brought right in to see Dr. Chenette. Great sense of humor which helped me relax on the spot. Took his time to explain in detail what was going on and how to treat the problem. Professional staff,good looking office and felt much better leaving than when I came in. Again, many thanks."
    Francis DiStasi
  • "Everyone at Cohasset Dental makes your visit a pleasant one! They are all so kind and professional. I wouldn’t want to go anywhere else!"
    Jennifer Burke
  • "Dr. Chenette and the staff at Cohasset Dental is amazing! During any procedure they are always checking in to make sure you are doing ok. I've had a cleaning, crown and filling and everything is great! Can't recommend them enough."
    Kendall Salluce
  • "I am a physician myself and this is my first visit to the clinic after being referred by my sister who has used them for many years with her family.

    I cannot say enough good things about the quality of the care provided by Dr. Chenette, Chelsie the dental hygienist, as well as the remainder of the staff, including the office manager, Leslie.

    Everyone was very warm and welcoming and very knowledgeable, with outstanding communication skills. One probably does not see this adjective describing an appointment with the dentist very often, but I would truly say it was a very pleasant experience and I felt I had received great care."
    Francis Duggan
  • "Dr. Chenette and his entire team always go above and beyond with their comfort and care. From the front desk to the hygienists, the entire staff are friendly and efficient. I have honestly never seen a better run practice and my teeth have never been as healthy as they are now. Competency from start to finish every visit."
    Kati Barclay
  • "As someone who is very anxious about the dentist, this place could not be more accommodating/welcoming. Staff go above and beyond, appointments are extremely easy to get, and payments are very transparent as well. Highly recommend!!"
    Hannah O'Gara