Gum disease is a common but serious oral health condition that affects the gums and the bone structure supporting your teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to bone loss, gum recession, and eventually tooth loss. At Whitley Family Dental, we prioritize gum health with thorough cleanings, early detection, and personalized treatment options to help protect your smile.
Types of Gum Disease
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. It occurs when plaque and bacteria accumulate along the gumline, leading to inflammation, redness, and bleeding gums—especially during brushing or flossing. Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional cleanings.
- Periodontal Disease: If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease, a more advanced infection that affects the deeper structures of the gums and jawbone. Over time, this can result in gum recession, bone loss, and loose or shifting teeth. Periodontal disease requires more intensive treatment to manage and prevent further damage.
What causes gum disease?
The primary cause of gum disease is bacteria in the form of plaque—a sticky biofilm that builds up on teeth and hardens into tartar if not removed. Several factors can contribute to an increased risk of gum disease, including:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow bacteria to thrive.
- Autoimmune Reactions: Some individuals may have a heightened inflammatory response to bacteria, increasing their risk.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can affect gum health and healing.
- Smoking and Tobacco Use: These habits weaken the immune system and slow the body’s ability to fight infections, making gum disease more severe.
Treatment for Gum Disease
Dr. Bill and the Whitley Family Dental team offer comprehensive care to treat and manage gum disease at every stage:
- Routine Cleanings: Regular professional cleanings help prevent plaque buildup and maintain gum health.
- Deep Cleanings (Scaling and Root Planing): A non-surgical treatment that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces to discourage bacteria from reattaching.
- Antimicrobial Treatments: Antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses can help reduce bacteria and inflammation in cases of moderate gum disease.
- Surgical Procedures: For severe periodontal disease, surgical interventions such as gum grafts or pocket reduction surgery may be necessary.
Preventing Gum Disease
The best way to deal with gum disease is to prevent it from happening in the first place.
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss every day to remove plaque between teeth
- Visit our Dallas dental office for regular cleanings and checkups
- Avoid smoking and tobacco use
- Manage underlying health conditions, such as diabetes
Why choose Whitley Family Dental for your gum disease care?
At Whitley Family Dental, we take gum health seriously and provide advanced periodontal care tailored to each patient’s needs.
- Enhanced Diagnostics and Gentle Periodontal Cleanings: Our hygiene specialists focus on both comfort and effectiveness, ensuring a thorough yet gentle approach to gum care.
- Specialty Referrals: For advanced cases of gum disease involving severe bone loss or tooth mobility, we coordinate with trusted periodontal specialists who share our commitment to high-quality, compassionate care.
Protect your gums and overall oral health for a lifetime of happy smiles. Schedule your next cleaning with Whitley Family Dental today!