Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common but often silent oral health issue that affects millions of people. Early stages may go unnoticed, but catching gum disease early can make a significant difference in preserving your smile and overall health. At The Addison Dentist, we’re here to help you identify and treat gum disease before it becomes a bigger problem.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It’s primarily caused by plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. If not removed through proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings, plaque hardens into tartar, which can irritate your gums and lead to gum disease.
There are two main stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis: The early, reversible stage where gums become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding.
- Periodontitis: The advanced stage, where gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth are damaged, potentially leading to tooth loss.
Sneaky Signs of Gum Disease
While bleeding gums are a common sign of gum disease, other symptoms are less obvious. Here are some sneaky signs to watch for:
- Persistent Bad Breath
If you’re noticing bad breath that doesn’t go away despite good oral hygiene, it could be caused by bacteria thriving in gum pockets. - Receding Gums
Do your teeth look longer than usual? Receding gums may expose the roots of your teeth, making them more sensitive to hot and cold. - Loose Teeth
Feeling like your teeth are shifting or loosening? This can be a sign that gum disease has progressed to the point of damaging the bone that supports your teeth. - Pus Between Teeth and Gums
Any signs of pus or discharge between your gums and teeth indicate infection and should be addressed immediately. - Changes in Your Bite
If your teeth no longer fit together the way they used to when you bite down, it might be due to gum disease affecting the bone structure. - Gum Sensitivity or Discomfort
Tenderness or discomfort in your gums, even without visible swelling, can be an early indicator of gum problems.
How The Addison Dentist Can Help
At The Addison Dentist, we take gum health seriously. Here’s how we can help:
- Comprehensive Exams: Our team will assess your gum health during regular check-ups to detect early signs of gum disease.
- Professional Cleanings: Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar, helping to prevent gum disease or manage its progression.
- Scaling and Root Planing: If gum disease is detected, this deep-cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar below the gum line and smooths tooth roots to encourage healing.
- Personalized Oral Hygiene Advice: We’ll provide tips and tools to help you maintain healthy gums at home.
- Advanced Treatment Options: For more severe cases, we offer treatments like laser therapy or periodontal surgery.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Ignoring gum disease can lead to more than just oral health issues. Research has linked periodontal disease to systemic health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications.
Don’t let gum disease sneak up on you. With regular visits to The Addison Dentist, you can protect your gums, teeth, and overall health.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you’ve noticed any signs of gum disease or it’s been a while since your last dental visit, contact The Addison Dentist today. Together, we can ensure your smile stays healthy and bright for years to come!
Contact The Addison Dentist:
469-998-2515
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
4145 Belt Line Rd Ste 208
Addison, Texas
75001
