When Gums Start Talking, Listen Up
Your gums often show the first signs of trouble. Bleeding during brushing, persistent bad breath, or red, swollen gums can signal the early stages of gum disease. If you ignore those symptoms, the condition can worsen quickly. The dentist evaluates your gums during every exam, but if you notice changes between visits, we recommend coming in sooner.
What Causes Gum Disease to Take Root
Gum disease starts with plaque. Bacteria in plaque irritate your gums and trigger inflammation. If you don’t remove plaque with daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. That buildup attracts more bacteria and causes the gums to pull away from the teeth. Over time, the infection reaches the bone and puts your teeth at risk.
Common contributors to gum disease include:
- Poor brushing and flossing habits
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
- Diabetes and certain medications
- Genetic factors and family history
Stage by Stage: How Gum Disease Progresses
Gum disease develops in stages. The earliest form, gingivitis, causes minor bleeding and swelling. At this point, the condition is still reversible with professional cleanings and improved home care. If it progresses to periodontitis, pockets form between the teeth and gums. These deep pockets collect bacteria that damage the bone and tissue that support your teeth.
Scaling and Root Planing: The Deep Clean Your Gums Need
The first step in periodontal therapy often involves scaling and root planing. We numb the area and use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar below the gumline. The dentist smooths the roots to help the gums reattach and reduce pocket depth. This treatment interrupts the infection and gives your mouth a chance to heal.
Keep It Clean with Periodontal Maintenance
After initial treatment, you’ll need more frequent cleanings to stay ahead of bacteria. Periodontal maintenance typically happens every three to four months. These visits help us monitor your progress, remove new buildup, and catch any signs of recurrence early. We customize the frequency based on your response to treatment and overall oral health.
Surgical Options for Advanced Gum Disease
The dentist may recommend a surgical approach when non-surgical methods aren’t enough. We only suggest surgery when necessary, and we guide you through every step of the process. Common procedures include flap surgery to access deep pockets and bone grafts to rebuild areas affected by loss.
Advanced treatment options may include:
- Gum grafting to restore receding gum tissue
- Bone grafts to strengthen the jaw
- Pocket reduction surgery for better access to infected areas
- Laser therapy to remove infected tissue with precision
Why Gum Health Matters Beyond Your Smile
Gum disease doesn’t just threaten your teeth. Research links chronic inflammation in the mouth to heart disease, stroke, and complications with diabetes. Healthy gums create a strong barrier against harmful bacteria traveling through your bloodstream. Taking care of your gums also reduces your risk of bad breath, loose teeth, and painful abscesses.
Kids and Teens Can Get Gum Issues Too
Children and teenagers aren’t immune to gum problems. Early-stage gingivitis can develop if your child skips brushing or rushes through flossing. Hormonal changes during puberty may also increase sensitivity and inflammation. We monitor gum health at every visit and teach younger patients how to keep their gums healthy as they grow.
Get Back on Track After Gum Disease
Even if you’ve had gum disease in the past, we can help you rebuild. Periodontal therapy focuses on stabilizing your condition and preventing future damage. The dentist works closely with you to create a personalized home care routine that supports healing and minimizes flare-ups. You can maintain progress and protect your smile with the right tools and consistent care.
Fresh Start, Healthy Gums: Periodontal Therapy in Atlantis
You don’t have to live with swollen gums or loose teeth. Periodontal therapy in Atlantis allows you to fight infection, save your teeth, and feel better about your smile. Dr. Garcia provides gentle, expert care to patients across Atlantis, Florida. We offer flexible financing options to make treatment more manageable. Contact us for an appointment and take the first step toward healthier gums today.