Gum Disease

“What is Gingivitis?” Gambrills patients often ask. It is the early stage of gum disease, a painless infection. Without treatment, gingivitis progresses to full-blown periodontal disease, which can have a serious impact on your appearance, oral health, and whole body wellness. The good news is that gum disease can be prevented, reversed, and managed effectively. Vickii R. Bingham-Lester, DMD works closely with patients in Gambrills and Crofton, MD and throughout the greater Washington DC area, helping them enjoy the benefits of healthy gums.

Development of gum disease

Bacteria feed on sugars in bits of food debris trapped between teeth and in plaque. As they eat, they excrete toxins that cause gum tissue to pull away from teeth.

Gum disease is measured by the attachment of gums to teeth. If four millimeters of gum tissue at the edges is not firmly sealed to teeth, you have gingivitis. The most noticeable symptom is bleeding gums. Gambrills patients can avoid more serious forms of gum disease by seeking treatment promptly.

Untreated, the condition progresses into periodontitis, creating pockets of five millimeters or greater. You cannot clean these pockets with brushing and flossing. You may experience chronic bad breath, tooth sensitivity, and decay. Teeth become loose, and eventually fall out or have to be extracted.

Treatment for healthy gums

Your first step toward healthy gums is scheduling a consultation. If you have gum disease, your Gambrills dentist will schedule scaling and root planing, which removes plaque and tartar from pockets and smooths tooth roots. It is vital to maintain frequent hygiene recalls, every three to four months.


Dr. Bingham-Lester wants you to know that the best solution for gum disease is prevention through good oral hygiene. However, it is never too late to begin treatment. Call her without delay at 410-885-6522.