Periodontal Care: Don’t Let Gum Disease Damage Your Smile
Tender or swollen gums? Or do your gums bleed easily when brushing and flossing your teeth? The culprit could be gum disease, the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. If you suspect gum disease, seek treatment at Pleasant Valley Dentistry. Dr. Semida Repta and her team provide conservative yet effective solutions to treat gum disease. Book your visit today, and get the dental care you deserve.
How does gum disease develop?
The primary cause of gum disease is plaque. This sticky, colorless film builds up in your mouth because of poor oral hygiene. As time passes, plaque accumulates, and the harmful bacteria it contains can cause inflammation of the gums. This is why your gums may appear swollen or redder than usual. They may also bleed easily when you brush and floss your teeth.
Gum disease develops quietly. If the early warning signs go untreated, it can progress and lead to serious complications, including:
- Gum recession
- Chronic bad breath
- Bone loss
- Loose teeth that eventually fall out
That’s not all. Uncontrolled gum disease-causing pathogens can seep into the bloodstream, creating a systemic inflammatory overload. This surge heightens the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, pregnancy complications, etc. Gum disease can cause far-reaching consequences beyond the mouth. So, when you detect its symptoms, seek treatment immediately.
How is gum disease treated?
Do you need gum disease treatment? We are the team to trust. We use a conservative approach to periodontal care. Depending on the severity of your gum disease, treatment may involve.
- Standard cleanings: Gingivitis—the earliest form of gum disease—can be reversed with dental cleanings and optimal at-home oral hygiene. We may also recommend a mouthwash to fight off harmful bacteria.
- Scaling and root planing: This treatment is often the first procedure to treat gum disease that doesn’t require surgical intervention. Scaling removes plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from the surface and deep periodontal pockets. Root planing smooths the root surfaces to discourage bacterial infections and encourage healthy tissue reattachment.
- Antibiotic therapy: We may prescribe topical and/or oral antibiotics to keep the infection under control.
Beating gum disease is only the first step—regular maintenance helps ensure it stays away. This includes professional cleanings every 3–4 months and a dedicated oral hygiene routine at home.
Can I prevent periodontal disease?
Gum disease can spell doom for your oral and overall health, but the good news is that it’s preventable. Here are steps you can take to maintain healthy gums.
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Also, don’t forget to floss your teeth to clean areas between teeth.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Limit the intake of sugary foods and beverages. Instead, choose healthy dietary choices, including veggies, fruits, dairy products, and calcium-rich foods.
- Quit tobacco use: Whether smoked or chewed, tobacco encourages plaque buildup, increasing the risk of periodontal disease.
- Routine visits: Visit your dentist every six months for regular cleanings and check-ups.
Do you need gum disease treatment near Peoria, Arizona?
Do you have tender, swollen, or bleeding gums? Stop gum disease before it’s too late. Call (623) 232-8066 and schedule your consultation with Pleasant Valley Dentistry. Let’s help you maintain healthy, firm gums.
