Periodontal

When was the last time you thought about your gums?

We brush and floss to keep our teeth clean, but we often forget about our gums, which hold our teeth in place. A lot of people don't know that gum disease is more common than they think. If you don't treat it, it can hurt your smile and your health without you knowing it.

If your gums bleed, feel swollen, or the line where your gums meet your teeth is getting smaller, your body may be trying to tell you something. And no, it's not "just a little inflammation." It could be the beginning of periodontal disease, and catching it now could save you time, money, and your natural teeth.

What is gum disease, really?

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is a long-term infection of the tissues around your teeth. It starts slowly, with plaque buildup, but it can get worse and worse until you have periodontitis, which is when the bone and tissue that support your teeth start to break down. You might not feel any pain at first, but don't let that fool you. Gum disease is sneaky and bad for you.

Signs That You Might Need Periodontal Care

Here's what to look out for:

  • Bleeding gums when you brush or floss
  • Bad breath that doesn't go away even after brushing
  • Gums that are swollen, sore, or puffy
  • Gums that are getting smaller (your teeth look "longer")
  • Teeth that are loose or moving
  • Tartar that can be seen below the gumline
  • Sores or pus between teeth and gums

It's a good idea to get checked out if you have even one of these symptoms.

Why Getting Help on Time is Important

When gum disease gets worse, it doesn't just stay in your mouth. Researchers have found a link between periodontitis and heart disease, diabetes complications, respiratory illness, and even problems during pregnancy. Intervening early not only saves your gums, but it also helps your whole body stay healthy.

How to Take Care of Your Periodontal Health

You don't have to be afraid of the treatment process. Modern periodontal care is gentle, very effective, and meant to stop the disease in its tracks.

This is what usually happens:

  1. First Evaluation

    The dentist or periodontist will look at your gum pockets, take X-rays to check the bone levels, and look for signs of active disease.

  2. Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)

    This procedure, which doesn't require surgery, gets rid of hardened plaque and bacteria that are deep under the gumline. To help your gums heal and reattach, the roots of your teeth are smoothed out.

  3. Treatment with antibiotics

    In some cases, your doctor may use local antibiotics or prescribe rinses to help keep the infection from getting worse.

  4. Visits After

    We keep an eye on the health of your gums over time and schedule regular cleanings every few months until everything is stable.

  5. Advanced Therapies (if necessary)

    For very bad cases, surgery options like gum grafting, flap surgery, or bone regeneration may be suggested, but these are often not needed if you get care early.

The Strength of Prevention

The best way to stop gum disease is to not give it a chance.

  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth twice a day
  • Floss every day at least once
  • Use mouthwash that your dentist suggests
  • Make sure to get check-ups every six months

Even if your teeth feel fine, your gums may be having trouble without you knowing it.

Take Care of Your Gums the Way They Deserve

You can't get rid of gum disease on your own. The longer you ignore it, the worse it gets. But if you get expert care and stick to it, your gums can heal and your smile can get better.

Call today to make an appointment for a periodontal checkup.
We're here to help you keep your smile's foundation safe, one step at a time.