Regular dental checkups and periodontal exams are crucial for maintaining healthy gums and teeth, as they help identify signs of periodontal disease early, preventing it from advancing. Good oral hygiene at home, including brushing, flossing, eating a balanced diet, and scheduling routine dental visits, is key to reducing your risk of gum disease and keeping your smile healthy.

Brushing and flossing properly remove plaque before it hardens into calculus, a rough substance that irritates the gums and weakens the seal between the gums and teeth. If left unchecked, bacteria can enter these vulnerable areas, creating pockets of infection and leading to progressive gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.

Periodontal disease progresses in two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis, the early stage, is characterized by inflamed, swollen gums that bleed easily during brushing. At this point, no irreversible damage has occurred, and the condition can usually be treated successfully without surgery.

If untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, where bacteria cause significant and irreversible damage to the gums and bone supporting the teeth. This leads to gum recession, loose teeth, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. Advanced periodontitis may require surgical intervention to prevent further damage and preserve oral health.

Plaque buildup is the primary cause of gum disease, but certain factors, such as weakened immune systems from conditions like cancer or HIV, diabetes, hormonal changes during pregnancy, certain medications, smoking, teeth grinding, crooked teeth, poor oral hygiene, and family history, can increase the risk.

Although gum disease often progresses without noticeable pain or obvious symptoms, warning signs such as red, swollen, bleeding, or receding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth may indicate the need for periodontal treatment.

The goal of periodontal treatment is to reduce infection, swelling, and pocket depth, halt disease progression, and promote gum healing and reattachment to the teeth. Treatment varies based on the severity of the condition and individual needs, ranging from non-surgical therapies to advanced options like surgery or dental implants. Scaling and root planing are common treatments to remove plaque and calculus and promote healing, and in some cases, antibiotic powder like Arestin may be used to further reduce inflammation.

At The Art of Smile Dental, we believe maintaining a beautiful, healthy smile and gums is achievable with the right care. No matter the current condition of your teeth and gums, now is the best time to start your journey to better dental health. To discuss your periodontal treatment options or schedule an appointment, call us today.