Gum Disease Treatment

in Wylie, TX

Gum disease (periodontal disease) is a chronic condition affecting about 40% of adults over 30 and almost 60% of adults over 65. While signs of early gum disease are often subtle, the progressive condition can impact your oral health and overall well-being. At Inspiration Dentistry, we take your gum health seriously, offering gum disease treatment and management to maintain long-term healthy smiles.

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What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a devastating, chronic condition that affects the gums, bones, and soft tissues that hold your teeth in place. It usually starts with plaque buildup on the teeth and below the gum line. If not removed by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, plaque can harden into tartar, irritating the gums and leading to inflammation. The earliest stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, is characterized by red, puffy, and bleeding gums.

If not treated, gingivitis can progress to a more destructive form of periodontal disease. The gums start pulling away from your teeth forming periodontal pockets that trap plaque and food debris, providing harmful bacteria with the perfect environment to flourish. As the condition advances to periodontitis, the gum inflammation and infection can destroy the tissues and bone supporting the teeth, leading to pain, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.

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How Is Gum Disease Treated and Managed?

Treating gum disease begins with scaling and root planing, which is a nonsurgical deep dental cleaning. The two-part process begins by removing plaque and tartar buildup along and below your gum line. Next, we clean and smooth your tooth root surfaces to promote healing and help your gums reattach to your tooth surfaces.

After scaling and root planing, most people require periodontal maintenance visits every 3 to 4 months, coupled with meticulous oral hygiene practices at home to maintain their gum health. During your appointments, we will professionally clean your teeth, evaluate your gum tissues, and intervene, as necessary, to keep your gums as healthy as possible.

How Can You Reduce Your Risk of Periodontal Disease?

Preventing gum disease is all about good oral hygiene and healthy habits, including the following:

Brush and Floss Daily: Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and prevent it from hardening into tartar.
Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings: Routine exams and cleanings help lower the risk of gum disease and ensure any problems are addressed in their earliest stages when easiest to treat.
Quit Smoking: Quitting smoking, one of the leading risk factors for gum disease, will improve your oral health and also contribute to your overall health and wellness.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Consume a balanced diet to provide your gums with the nutrients they need to stay healthy.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help wash away food particles and bacteria, which helps enhance your oral health.

FAQs

What are the signs of gum disease?

Common signs of periodontal disease include reddish, swollen, or bleeding gums, bad breath, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. As the condition progresses, it can lead to receding gums that leave your teeth looking longer, tooth sensitivity, persistent pain when you chew, and changes in the alignment of your teeth or bite. It can also lead to loose teeth and, eventually, tooth loss. The earlier gum disease is addressed, the better the outcomes for your smile.

What is the potential impact of gum disease on my health?

Bacteria from gum disease can make its way into your bloodstream, wreaking havoc on your overall health and well-being. Studies show a strong link between gum disease and serious health concerns, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even pregnancy complications.

Is gum disease reversible?

Gingivitis can be well-managed or even reversed with good oral hygiene and professional dental cleanings. Once it progresses to periodontitis, it cannot be cured but can be managed, preventing its progression and its devastating impacts on your oral health.