Gum Disease Treatment in Raleigh
Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth. It is most often caused by bacteria from plaque. Periodontal literally means, “around the tooth.”
Gum Disease Treatment
Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth. It is most often caused by bacteria from plaque. Periodontal literally means, “around the tooth.”
Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. It is characterized by red, swollen, bleeding gums and is caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis can usually be treated here in our office and through dedicated home care.
Periodontitis is more serious, and typically results from untreated Gingivitis. If plaque is not regularly removed from your teeth, it can spread below the gumline. Once this happens, bacteria from the plaque will infect the gums—this causes the tissue to recede and separate from the teeth.
Anna Abernethy, DDS
Dr. Abernethy, originally from Concord, North Carolina, moved to Raleigh for college and graduated from Meredith College in 2001 with a degree in biology and a minor in chemical physics. Her journey towards dentistry began unexpectedly when she experienced a dental emergency during her college years, leading her to explore the field through externship programs. Witnessing a patient's life-changing smile makeover after a car accident inspired her to become a dentist. She pursued her dental education at UNC-Chapel Hill Dental School, actively participating in various community service initiatives and events. After graduation, she gained valuable experience as an associate in a dental practice.
Jill Sonner, DDS
Dr. Sonner, a Raleigh native, completed her undergraduate studies at NCSU in Biological Sciences in 1999. She pursued dental education at UNC Dental School and trained at Fayetteville VA Medical Center, gaining skills in treating medically compromised and geriatric patients, and in advanced surgical techniques, including implant placement. She achieved Fellowship with The International Dental Implant Association, mentored by Dr. Arun Garg. Dr. Sonner, alongside Drs. Abernethy and Wells, took part in a mission to the Dominican Republic, contributing to dental implant surgeries, enhancing chewing function for locals who wouldn't otherwise have the chance. Their efforts significantly improved the quality of life for many recipients.
Anita Wells, DDS
Dr. Anita Wells, developed her passion for dentistry in her hometown of Pinehurst, inspired by her childhood dentist's compassionate and personalized care. From a young age, she was fascinated by his ability to transform lives through beautiful smiles. Observing his artistic skills and the positive impact he made on patients, she decided to pursue dentistry. Dr. Wells graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Bachelor's degree in Biology and Chemistry, and later earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery with the highest honors. After practicing in Chapel Hill, she co-founded Renaissance Dental Center in 2009, aiming to provide personalized dental care based on her dedication to changing people's lives.
Gum Disease
Risk Factors
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Ill-fitting bridges, crowded teeth or defective fillings
- Medications (steroids, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure meds)
- Pregnancy, oral contraceptives and puberty (changes in hormone levels can cause gum
- tissue to become more sensitive to bacteria toxins)
- Systemic diseases (diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV / AIDS, etc.)
- Genetics (patients with a family history of tooth loss should pay particular attention to their gums)
Signs And Symptoms
- Red and puffy gums
- Bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- New spacing between teeth
- Loose teeth
- Pus around the teeth and gums
- Receding gums
- Tenderness or discomfort