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  1. UAMS Health
  2. Conditions
  3. Gum Disease

Condition: Gum Disease

Also called: Periodontitis

Gum Disease, also called periodontitis (per-e-o-don-TIE-tis), is an infection of the gum tissue that damages the soft tissue, and if left untreated, can damage and destroy the bone that supports your teeth. Long-term gum disease can cause your teeth to loosen or fall out.

Gum disease is quite common and often preventable. Brushing, flossing and getting regular dental check-ups are simple steps to improving your oral health and keeping gum disease at bay.

Symptoms

Healthy gums are firm and pale pink. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your dentist.

  • Bad breath that won’t go away
  • Gaps growing between your teeth
  • Gums that are bright red, darkish red or purple
  • Gums that bleed when you brush, floss, or eat
  • Misaligned teeth that don’t quite fit when you bite down
  • Pus between your teeth and gums
  • Teeth that feel loose or fall out

If you need a new dentist, set up an appointment at the UAMS Delta Dental of Arkansas Foundation Oral Health Clinic.

Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease is often the result of plaque build-up on your teeth and gums. Brushing your teeth daily is one of the best ways to prevent gum disease.

Contents

  • Providers
  • Locations
  • Areas of Expertise
  • Make an Appointment

Providers Diagnosing or Treating Gum Disease

Note that every provider listed below may not perform or prescribe all treatments or procedures related to Gum Disease. Review each provider for availability.

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Dana R. Bodenner, D.D.S.

Dana R. Bodenner, D.D.S. Dentist

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Alissa A. Bryant, RDH

Alissa A. Bryant, RDH Dental Hygienist

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Jennifer P. Ryker, RDH

Jennifer P. Ryker, RDH Dental Hygienist

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Courtney L. Teasley, RDH

Courtney L. Teasley, RDH Dental Hygienist

View Profile

Locations Where Providers Treat Gum Disease

Note that the treatment of Gum Disease may not be performed at every location listed below. The list may include locations where the treatment plan is developed during and after a patient visit.

Filter the Locations


Freeway Medical Tower

Dental Hygiene Student Clinic

5800 W. 10th St.
Freeway Medical Tower
Suite 501
Little Rock, AR 72204

Appointment Phone Number
501-686-5733
New and Returning Patients
View Location Get Directions
UAMS Medical Center exterior

UAMS Delta Dental of Arkansas Foundation Oral Health Clinic

4301 W. Markham St.
Harry P. and Betty Jo Ward Tower
Little Rock, AR 72205

Appointment Phone Number
501-526-7619
New and Returning Patients
View Location Get Directions

Areas of Expertise for Gum Disease

Image of a doctor dentist showing patient's teeth on X-ray.

Dental Care

Oral health is often an indicator of a person's overall health. That's why UAMS Health provides dental care to our community through our Oral Health Clinic.

View Area of Expertise

Make an Appointment

Request an appointment by contacting a clinic directly or by calling the UAMS Health appointment line at (501) 686-8000.

UAMS Health LogoUAMS HealthUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Mailing Address: 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone: (501) 686-7000
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