At The Addison Dentist, we believe that healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. But gum disease often goes unnoticed until it causes serious damage. Dr. Steven Lee, Dr. Julio Obando, and Dr. William Shattuck want you to know that gum disease doesn’t always start with pain—it usually begins quietly, with subtle signs you might miss.
The Early Clues You Might Overlook
Gum disease starts when bacteria build up around the gumline and aren’t fully removed with daily brushing and flossing. In the earliest stage, called gingivitis, you might notice red or swollen gums, or even a little bleeding when you brush. These symptoms are often shrugged off as “normal,” but they’re your gums warning you that something’s wrong.
Another common symptom is persistent bad breath. While occasional bad breath can be caused by food or dry mouth, breath that never seems fresh could be a sign of bacterial buildup. You may also notice that your gums are receding slightly, or that your teeth feel more sensitive than usual.
When Gum Disease Becomes More Serious
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease. At this stage, the infection goes deeper, affecting the bones that support your teeth. You may start to feel like your teeth are loosening, or notice changes in the way they fit together. Gum pockets may form, trapping more bacteria and making it harder to clean your teeth effectively.
This stage of gum disease can lead to tooth loss—and it’s more common than you might think. In fact, periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. But it doesn’t stop at your mouth. Gum disease has also been linked to serious health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Smile
The good news is that gum disease is both treatable and preventable. At The Addison Dentist, we help patients reverse the effects of gingivitis and manage periodontal disease through personalized treatment plans. This might include a deep cleaning, antibiotic therapy, or ongoing periodontal maintenance to stop the progression of the disease.
Most importantly, consistent oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are your best defense. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and staying on top of your professional cleanings can make all the difference in protecting your gums.
Addison’s Trusted Resource for Periodontal Health
If you’ve noticed signs like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or sensitivity, don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. Gum disease is much easier to treat when caught early. Dr. Steven Lee, Dr. Julio Obando, and Dr. William Shattuck are here to help you understand your periodontal health and take action. The Addison Dentist proudly serves patients throughout Addison and the surrounding communities with expert, compassionate care. Reach out today to schedule your cleaning and give your gums the attention they deserve.
Contact The Addison Dentist:
469-998-3188
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
4145 Belt Line Rd Ste 208
Addison, Texas
75001
