Did you know that more than a billion people around the world are living with gum disease? It’s one of the most widespread oral health problems, second only to tooth decay, and yet many people don’t realize they have it. The signs often go unnoticed until the damage is harder to reverse. So why does something this common still fly under the radar?
Several contributing factors may include poor oral hygiene, smoking, stress, or the use of certain medications. But one thing remains clear: the most effective way to detect gum disease early and keep it from progressing is by scheduling regular visits with your dentist. At Bent Tree Dental, we are here for more than just routine care. We are your trusted ally in long-term oral health, committed to helping you protect your smile and your well-being for years to come.
Gum Disease Explained: What Is It and Where Does It Come From?
Gum disease typically begins with the accumulation of plaque, which results from the combination of starches and sugars with bacteria in the mouth. Plaque accumulates on your teeth throughout the day and can be removed by regular brushing and flossing. If not removed, it can harden into tartar that reaches underneath the gum line. At this point, professional cleaning is necessary to thoroughly remove the tartar.
When plaque and tartar build up on your teeth, they create the perfect environment for harmful bacteria. The longer these bacteria remain, the more damage they can cause.
Gum disease begins with gingivitis, the mildest stage. The good news is that with early treatment and good oral hygiene, gingivitis can be reversed. However, if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis—a more severe condition characterized by deep pockets forming between the gums and teeth. These pockets collect bacteria, which can lead to tooth loss and place extra strain on your immune system.
The effects of advanced gum disease go beyond your mouth. Bacteria from infected gums can enter your bloodstream, potentially affecting other parts of your body. Research has linked periodontal disease to conditions like heart disease, respiratory infections, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Some of the signs indicating gum disease are:
- Tender or swollen gums
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
- Discomfort while chewing
- Formation of black triangle-like spaces between teeth
While these are common signs of gum disease, the symptoms can sometimes go unnoticed. At your regular checkups, we will assess your teeth and gums to determine if further steps are needed to prevent or address gum disease.
How We Treat Gum Disease
Suppose we diagnose gum disease or advanced periodontitis. In that case, our approach involves deep cleanings below the gum line, laser therapy, or targeted saliva tests to identify the specific strain causing the issue. Our comprehensive treatments can thoroughly tackle the infection, preventing its return and safeguarding your long-term oral health.
Scaling and Root Planing
When you come in for your treatment at Bent Tree Dental, we typically begin scaling and root planing to address issues before they escalate. The procedure is relatively straightforward and first involves removing plaque and tartar buildup using specialized tools, ensuring a clean and healthy gum line. After this, we focus on smoothing the roots of your teeth. This encourages the gums to reattach, closing periodontal pockets.
The scaling and root planing procedure treats the current stage of gum disease and prevents the infection from advancing. By thoroughly removing plaque and tartar buildup, the procedure helps prevent future oral health complications.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is an innovative solution for gum disease. This treatment involves using a soft tissue dental laser to eliminate affected tissue along the gumline, often replacing traditional surgery. This precise method halts the spread of gum disease by removing infected tissue. A deep cleaning then removes plaque, comprehensively addressing the infections. This approach is swift, comfortable, and precise, impacting only affected tissue and allowing faster healing.
Gum Recession Treatment
If gum disease causes the gums to recede, the first line of action would be to treat the area of the infection. After this, Dr. Miller can perform tissue regeneration for patients who have suffered bone or tissue loss due to periodontal disease. This is done with regeneration material, a soft tissue graft, or PST™.
The PST procedure is less invasive than other treatments for gum recession. It involves making a small hole in the gums and reshaping the tissue. This technique facilitates a quick recovery. At your consultation, we’ll determine the best treatment for your needs.
Think You Might Have Gum Disease? Let’s Talk About It!
Gum disease is one of the most common oral health challenges. While good hygiene helps prevent it, factors like genetics and chronic illness can still bring it on when you least expect it. That’s why early detection matters. At Bent Tree Dental, we focus on building lasting relationships with our patients, not just treating symptoms. Our team is here to understand your unique needs, guide you through your options, and help you stay ahead of future dental concerns.
If you’re noticing changes in your gums or simply want peace of mind, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll be with you every step of the way.
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