Gum Disease: What It Is And How To Treat

Understanding Gum Disease: A Common Threat to Your Oral and Overall Health

The advanced stage of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most widespread oral health issues in America. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of adults aged 30 and older suffer from some form of gum disease. This condition, which often begins as mild inflammation, can escalate into serious dental and systemic health problems if left untreated.

At MKR Dental in Richmond, Texas, we’re committed to educating our patients about gum disease and providing effective treatments to help you maintain a healthy smile and overall well-being.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth, caused by a buildup of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—on the teeth and gums. The condition typically progresses in two stages:

1. Gingivitis: The early stage of gum disease characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding gums.
2. Periodontitis: If untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, where the infection spreads below the gumline, causing gum recession, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss.

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease

Recognizing the early warning signs of gum disease is essential to prevent its progression. Common symptoms include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
• Gum recession, where the gums pull away from the teeth
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Formation of deep pockets between the teeth and gums
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional dental care promptly.

The Consequences of Untreated Gum Disease

Gum disease doesn’t just affect your smile; it can also impact your overall health.

Local Consequences

• Tooth Loss: Advanced gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss.
• Receding Gums: Untreated gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, leading to sensitivity and an uneven gumline.
• Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath (halitosis) is often a sign of gum disease.

Systemic Health Risks

Research has linked gum disease to several serious health conditions, including:

• Heart Disease: Inflammation caused by gum disease may contribute to heart problems, including heart attacks and strokes.
• Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, and people with diabetes are more susceptible to gum infections.
• Respiratory Issues: Bacteria from gum infections can enter the lungs, increasing the risk of respiratory conditions like pneumonia.

Gum disease is an infection that can’t be cured, only treated

Gum disease is a chronic infection, and fighting it takes time. That is why consistent treatment is so important. But over time, with treatment that work and good home care which includes regular brushing, flossing and using of antibacterial mouth rinses, improvement can be seen.

How Gum Disease Is Treated

The good news is that gum disease is preventable and treatable, especially when caught early. At MKR Dental, we offer personalized care to restore your gum health.

Treatment Options

• Antibacterial Rinses: This specially formulated mouth rinse can reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth and help control infection. Using an antibacterial rinse as part of your treatment plan can significantly improve gum health and prevent the condition from worsening. OraCare mouth rinse kills bacteria, fungi, and viruses while eliminating volatile sulfur and breaking up biofilm. Ask us about OraCare.
• Scaling and Root Planing: This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to promote healing.
• Local Antibiotics: While Scaling and Root Planing (deep cleaning) is very effective, the dental instruments cannot always go deep enough to reach every point of infection. Also, the treatment by itself would not kill the bacterial that is embedded deep in the gums and pocket. This is why most dentists combine deep cleaning with an antibiotic such as ARESTIN, that is applied at the site of the infection
• Laser Therapy: Advanced laser technology can target and eliminate infected gum tissue with minimal discomfort.
• Surgical Options: In severe cases, procedures such as gum grafting or pocket reduction surgery may be necessary to restore the health and function of your gums.

Preventing Gum Disease

Prevention is the key to avoiding gum disease. Simple steps like brushing twice a day, flossing daily, using an antibacterial rinse that actually works, and scheduling regular dental cleanings can go a long way in protecting your gum health.

Take Control of Your Gum Health Today

Don’t let gum disease compromise your smile or your overall health. If you’re experiencing symptoms like bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, it’s time to take action.

Schedule a consultation with MKR Dental in Richmond, Texas, where our team of experts will create a customized treatment plan to restore your gum health and keep your smile beautiful. Your oral health is our priority!

Call us today to book your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier smile.