Is Gum Disease Present? Learn How to Treat It

For a large majority of people, gum disease is, or someday will be, a significant threat to their oral health. However, with consistently good hygiene and professional care, it doesn’t have to be a destructive influence. Gum disease is a progressive issue that, while common, is also highly preventable, and highly treatable if it is allowed to develop. While prevention is typically the same (daily brushing and flossing, along with routine checkups and cleanings), the secret of how to treat gum disease depends on how severe your condition is allowed to become.

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, can actually affect much more than just your gums when it’s allowed to have its way. Beginning as a bacterial infection (gingivitis) that results from an overabundance of plaque buildup, gum disease slowly progresses until it destroys your gum tissues and the ligaments around your teeth. Eventually, it can reach the jawbone underneath your gums, eroding the bone around your teeth roots and potentially leading to tooth loss.

Since the first stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is actually a bacterial infection, treating it can often be accomplished by simply cleaning away the bacteria from underneath your gum tissues. The procedure, which is referred to as a deep cleaning (root planing and scaling) involves carefully cleaning the surfaces of your teeth roots to allow the gums to recuperate. If your gum tissue is severely infected, it might need to be trimmed away, and possibly replaced with a gum graft.

Dr. Quinn Smith is a well-respected and highly experienced general, restorative, and family dentist in Grand Prairie, TX. He takes a patient-first approach that starts from the moment patients enter our Pecan Tree Dental office, and he offers a three-year guarantee on all dental work that he performs. Whether you and your family are new or returning patients, you can schedule a consultation or your next appointment with Dr. Smith by contacting us at (972) 262-5111.