Healthy gums are the foundation for healthy teeth and a comfortable smile. Gum disease affects approximately 75% of adults at some point in their lives, but many patients do not realize they have it until additional dental problems arise. At Integrated Dental by Espire in Greeley, our doctors emphasize the importance of maintaining gum health with regular brushing, flossing and preventive dental care. They will preform a thorough periodontal screening during routine dental exams to look for signs of gum disease. When caught in the early stages, conservative treatment is often effective.
Gum Disease Treatment in Greeley, CO
Many patients who visit our Greeley, CO family dentist office fall within a spectrum of periodontal disease, ranging from an inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) to a chronic disease of the gums and bone (periodontitis). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that half of Americans aged 30 or older have periodontitis, the more advanced form of gum disease. It is common to experience little or no symptoms or obvious signs of gum disease. For this reason, regular visits to the dentist are critical to preventing and managing gum disease.
Gum disease treatment is one of the general dentistry services that we provide to our patients in Greeley, CO.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Plaque is constantly forming in the mouth. If it is not removed daily by brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar. Bacteria thrives in this environment and over time, it can develop into gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. Gingivitis can progress into an infection, destroy gum tissue and eventually degrade bone to the point that teeth can become loose or missing.
What can be done to prevent gum disease?
The best way to fight gum disease is prevention. Integrated Dental by Espire encourages patients to brush twice a day and floss at least once a day. Regular visits to our Greeley, CO family dentist office will also help reduce your risk for developing gum disease. Another important step to preventing gum disease is having a healthy diet. This means limiting sodas, sweets and snacks between meals. Drinking water will also help reduce bacteria in the mouth.
Common Signs Of Gum Disease Include:
- Red, swollen or sore gums
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Mouth sores or pus between gums and teeth
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Changes in the fit of dentures
Gum Disease Treatment Options
Integrated Dental by Espire in Greeley, CO offers several treatment options for periodontal disease. If you have early signs of gum disease, one of our experience doctors may recommend frequent dental cleanings to restore your gums to optimal health. If more intensive treatment is needed, we may recommend a deep teeth cleaning known as scaling and root planing. During this procedure, he will remove plaque and tartar from the deep pockets of the gum. Your doctor may use laser dentistry to remove diseased gum tissue and recontour the gums for both improved oral health and an enhanced smile. Patients who have advanced signs of gum disease may require more intense treatment or surgery. If so, our team may refer you to a local periodontist for treatment.