Gum Disease Warning Signs

Periodontal disease offers a number of different dangers for our smile, including tooth loss in some cases. In order to avoid the onset of gum disease, our Dallas, TX, patients need to understand the common warning signs. We’ll discuss symptoms to watch for, as well as preventive options to protect your smile’s health!

Bleeding Gums and More

Periodontal disease forms when gum inflammation, also known as gingivitis, remains untreated. Inflammation often arises as a result of poor oral hygiene, smoking and tobacco use, family history of the disease, certain prolonged illnesses. The inflammation eventually causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming deep pockets for bacteria to enter and leading to the onset of periodontal disease. Potential warning signs of gingivitis and gum disease include sore and red gums, swelling and gingival recession, and bleeding when brushing and flossing. If one or more of these symptoms sound familiar, then please contact our team for a diagnosis right away.

The Long-Term Impact of Untreated Gum Disease

While we can reverse gingivitis, once gum disease forms there is no cure. However, routine treatment is crucial for managing the disease and preventing periodontitis, the advanced stage. Once periodontitis forms, the connective tissue between the teeth and gums could be destroyed, meaning patients develop loose and lost teeth. In fact, periodontitis is the primary cause of tooth loss in adults. In order to protect your smile, you maintain optimal oral health.

Preventive Solutions

With preventive dentistry, we help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. First, you should always make time to brush your teeth twice daily and floss every night before bed. Homecare helps limit how much plaque can accumulate in between office visits. You also need to see us every six months for a checkup and cleaning. If you have high risk factors for the disease, then we may suggest a visit every three to four months. The checkup allows us to monitor your gum health while the cleaning removes all plaque and tartar from the teeth. We also suggest cutting back on sugary foods and drinks, which could encourage plaque buildup. If you smoke or use other tobacco products, please quit as soon as possible. If you have any questions about avoiding gum disease, or if you feel like you need to schedule a cleaning, then contact our team today.

Gentle Smiles Family Dentistry Protects Gum Health

At Gentle Smiles Family Dentistry, our team would like to safeguard your gums against periodontal treatment options. Contact us today to discuss preventive dentistry by calling 972-329-7645 (972-329-SMILE) We strive to offer our patients of all ages compassionate, effective, and individualized care. At Gentle Smiles, we are proud to serve families from Dallas, TX, and the surrounding communities, including Mesquite, Balch Springs, Garland, and Seagoville.