Prevention and Treatment of Gum Disease
At Taylor Made Smiles in Monroe, we believe that healthy gums are just as important as healthy teeth. Gum disease is a common yet serious condition that affects the tissues supporting your teeth. When left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and even contribute to other health problems. Understanding how gum disease develops, how to prevent it, and how to treat it is key to protecting your overall dental health.
Why Gum Health Matters
Your gums provide the foundation for your teeth. They hold them in place, protect the bone underneath, and help maintain a healthy, attractive smile. When gum disease takes hold, it compromises this foundation. Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth—some studies have found that it can also be linked to other conditions.
At Taylor Made Smiles, they promote preventive dental care and early detection to help our patients avoid the discomfort and long-term damage caused by gum disease.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is typically caused by the accumulation of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—along and under the gumline.
Early Stage: Gingivitis
The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis. Symptoms include red, swollen gums that may bleed easily when brushing or flossing. At this stage, gum disease is reversible with good oral hygiene and professional cleanings.
Advanced Stage: Periodontitis
If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis. This advanced stage causes gums to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that trap bacteria. The infection can destroy the bone and connective tissue, resulting in loose teeth or tooth loss. Periodontitis requires more involved treatment and ongoing maintenance.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Several factors contribute to gum disease, including:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Genetics
- Diabetes or other systemic health conditions
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
- Certain medications that reduce saliva production
At Taylor Made Smiles, we evaluate your individual risk factors during routine exams to help you prevent gum disease before it starts or stop its progression in the early stages.
Signs You May Have Gum Disease
Gum disease can be subtle in its early stages, which is why regular dental visits are so important. However, there are signs you can look for, including:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Chronic bad breath
- Receding gums or teeth appearing longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a visit to our office so we can assess your gum health and recommend the right course of action.
Diagnosing Gum Disease at Taylor Made Smiles
We use a combination of techniques to diagnose gum disease accurately and comfortably. During your visit, our team will:
- Examine your gums for signs of inflammation or bleeding
- Use a periodontal probe to measure pocket depths around each tooth
- Take digital X-rays to check for bone loss beneath the gumline
These tools help us determine the stage of gum disease and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs.
Preventing Gum Disease Through Daily Care
Prevention is always the best medicine when it comes to gum disease. Simple habits make a big difference:
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended
- Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Avoid smoking or tobacco products
Regular cleanings and exams at Taylor Made Smiles are also essential. Even with good home care, professional cleanings are needed to remove hardened plaque (tartar) that can lead to gum disease.
Treatment Options for Gum Disease
Our approach to treating gum disease depends on its severity and how much damage has occurred. There is a range of non-surgical and surgical treatments to address every stage.
Professional Dental Cleanings
If your gum disease is in the early stages, a professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene may be all that’s needed. During your cleaning, we remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline to reduce inflammation.
Scaling and Root Planing
This deep cleaning procedure is often the first step in treating periodontitis. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, while root planing smooths the root surfaces to help gums reattach to the teeth. It can prevent further damage and encourage healing.
Ongoing Maintenance
After initial treatment, patients with gum disease may need more frequent dental visits—typically every three to four months. These visits allow us to monitor your progress and clean areas that are difficult to reach at home.
Surgical Options
In advanced cases, we may refer patients for surgical procedures such as flap surgery or bone and tissue grafts to restore support structures. While we do not perform periodontal surgery in-house, we work closely with specialists to ensure you receive the best possible care.
Trust Taylor Made Smiles for Comprehensive Gum Care
At Taylor Made Smiles in Monroe, we are committed to helping our patients achieve lasting gum health through education, prevention, and expert treatment. We believe in empowering you with the tools and knowledge to care for your smile every day.
Whether you need a routine cleaning or advanced periodontal treatment, we’ll guide you every step of the way with personalized, compassionate care. If you’re concerned about your gum health or have noticed symptoms of gum disease, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Let us help you protect your smile for years to come.
