9021 N Rodgers Ct SE Ste E, Caledonia, MI 49316
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Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)
Home » Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)

What is gingivitis, and how is it related to periodontal disease?

Patients of the Caledonia, Michigan, area concerned about an oral infection will want to work with a dental provider to discuss their needs. Preventative care and daily oral hygiene habits can help avoid issues like periodontal disease. The beginning stages of infection, known as gingivitis, can be eradicated with the help of Drs. Gary Scott and Allyson M. Grove at Family Dentistry of Caledonia, allowing patients to reverse the infection and keep it from becoming more severe and damaging to the smile. Let’s look at what gingivitis is and how it can be managed with the help of a dental professional in your community!

What is gingivitis?

Our dental team describes gingivitis as the earliest form of periodontal disease or gum disease. Gingivitis is reversible with proper diagnosis and treatment. However, if patients do not get a definitive diagnosis and avoid treating it, it can progress to the later stages of periodontitis and be irreversible. Periodontitis is an infection that can cause significant damage to the smile, resulting in bone, gum, and tooth loss if ignored. Symptoms of gingivitis include noticeably swollen, red, and bleeding gums. Patients may also experience bad breath or a metallic taste in their mouth.

What should I do if I suspect I have gingivitis?

Practicing good oral hygiene habits at home, such as brushing twice daily and flossing, is crucial to prevent the progression of periodontal disease and its symptoms. Treatment of the condition is also recommended. This may be done with a professional dental cleaning or scaling and root planing procedure to treat gingivitis. Additionally, your dentist may prescribe specific medications to help eradicate the infection.

Prevent and treat gingivitis early to avoid advanced gum disease

To avoid the development of gingivitis or to get a definitive diagnosis and discuss possible treatment solutions, we welcome you to call Family Dentistry of Caledonia at (616) 816-5882. Drs. Gary Scott and Allyson M. Grove are available to assist patients in and around the communities of Caledonia, MI, and invite new and returning patients to connect with us to obtain the necessary dental work for a healthier smile! We also serve patients in Grand Rapids, Alto, Freeport, Hastings, Kentwood, Cutlerville, and Middleville, MI.

Dr. Gary Scott

Dr. Gary L. Scott, DDS

Dr. Gary Scott is a highly experienced dentist with over 25 years of practice, having earned his DDS from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1996. Following graduation, Dr. Scott served in the U.S. Army, completing an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency and serving with distinction in the 10th Mountain Division. In 1999, he established Family Dentistry of Caledonia, where he continues to provide trusted care. With his dedication to patient well-being and community service, you can trust Dr. Scott to deliver compassionate, expert dental care for your family.

Dr. Allyson Grove

Dr. Allyson M. Grove, DDS

Dr. Ally Grove is a compassionate and dynamic dentist who graduated with her DDS from the University of Michigan in 2022. She holds a dual degree in Biology and Spanish from Ferris State University, where she was also a student-athlete. Dr. Grove is dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care at Family Dentistry of Caledonia and is passionate about patient education and comfort. She strives to build lasting relationships with her patients through trust, personalized care, and a commitment to their well-being.

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