Hello, neighbors! This is Dr. Reagan Smith from Oak Hills Dentistry. I believe that healthy gums are the first step to complete oral health, and a healthy smile contributes to your overall wellness. Today, I want to talk about a common but serious issue: periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. Let’s explore how to spot it, what causes it, and what we can do about it right here in Spring, TX.
Early Warning Signs of Gum Disease
Your gums should never bleed when you brush or floss. Think of it like washing your hands—if they bled every time, you’d know something was wrong. Recognizing the early indicators of periodontal disease is key to stopping it in its tracks.
Look out for these early warning signs of gum disease:
- Gums that are red, swollen, or tender
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Gums pulling away from your teeth (recession)
- New sensitivity to hot or cold
- Loose teeth or a change in your bite
Is Gum Disease Reversible In Its Early Stages?
Yes, absolutely! In its initial stage, called gingivitis, gum disease is completely reversible. Consistent home care is your first line of defense. This includes brushing twice daily, flossing every day, and using an antimicrobial mouth rinse if recommended.
However, once plaque hardens into tartar, it can only be removed with a professional cleaning. This is where we come in. Regular check-ups allow us to catch and reverse gingivitis before it progresses to more severe periodontal disease.
Common Causes of Periodontal Disease in Spring, TX
While plaque buildup from bacteria is the primary cause, certain local factors and lifestyle habits here in the Spring area can increase your risk. These include:
- Seasonal Allergies: Our lovely Texas foliage can lead to allergies, causing mouth breathing which dries out your gums.
- Diet: Enjoying sweet tea and sugary treats is common, but high-sugar diets feed the bacteria that cause plaque.
- Lifestyle Factors: Tobacco use, both smoking and smokeless, is a major risk factor.
- Other Health Issues: Conditions like diabetes, along with genetics and stress, can make you more susceptible to gum disease.
What Is Gum Therapy?
If gum disease advances beyond gingivitis, we have effective treatments to manage it. This is often referred to as gum therapy. The goal is to remove tartar from below the gumline and smooth the tooth roots to help your gums reattach.
This therapy typically involves:
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning procedure to remove tartar and plaque.
- Localized Antibiotics: We may place antibiotics directly into the gum pockets to fight infection.
- Periodontal Maintenance: After initial therapy, we’ll see you for more frequent cleanings to keep the disease under control.
In advanced cases, a referral to a specialist for surgical treatment may be necessary.
Your Next Step to Healthy Gums
Your oral health is a vital part of your overall well-being. Don’t ignore bleeding gums or other symptoms. If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, let’s take a look.
Schedule your periodontal evaluation today with me, Dr. Reagan Smith, DDS, at Oak Hills Dentistry in Spring, TX. We are here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile. Call us to book your appointment!
Contact Oak Hills Dentistry:
281-350-8852
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
2525 Louetta Rd, Ste 100, Spring, TX
Spring, Texas
77388