Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile, but periodontal (gum) disease can threaten both. Periodontal disease is a common condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of your teeth. At Howze Dental Group, we are dedicated to helping you prevent and treat gum disease to protect your oral health and overall well-being.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and the bone supporting your teeth. It begins as gingivitis, which causes redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. Without treatment, it can progress into periodontitis, a more serious condition that damages the bone and tissue holding your teeth in place. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and other health issues.
Common signs of gum disease include:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Persistent bad breath
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Receding gums, making your teeth appear longer
- Loose teeth or changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Our Approach to Treating Gum Disease
At Howze Dental Group, we take gum health seriously and provide comprehensive care to manage periodontal disease. During your visit, we will assess the condition of your gums using advanced diagnostic techniques, including probe charting to measure the depth of pockets around your teeth. This allows us to determine the severity of the infection and create a personalized treatment plan.
Our periodontal treatments focus on halting the progression of gum disease and restoring your oral health. For mild to moderate cases, we offer in-office non-surgical gum therapy. This involves deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing, to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooth the roots of your teeth, helping your gums reattach to the teeth.
Home Care and Maintenance
Treating gum disease doesn’t stop in the dental office. At-home care is an essential part of managing and preventing further issues. Dr. Howze and Dr. Scott will provide you with instructions on proper brushing, flossing, and using specialized tools like interdental brushes or water flossers to keep your gums healthy.
We may also recommend home fluoride treatments or prescription antibacterial rinses to help control bacteria and reduce the risk of reinfection.
The Link Between Gum Disease and Your Overall Health
Gum disease isn’t just an oral health issue—it can impact your entire body. Research has shown that periodontal disease is linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. By treating gum disease, you are also taking steps to protect your overall health.
Ongoing Care to Prevent Gum Disease
Prevention is key when it comes to gum disease. Regular checkups and professional cleanings are vital to keeping your gums healthy and catching early signs of problems. Even if your gums are healthy now, maintaining regular visits to Howze Dental Group can help you avoid periodontal disease in the future.
If you have already been treated for gum disease, follow-up care is just as important. Periodontal maintenance appointments are scheduled more frequently than routine cleanings to monitor your gum health and provide any necessary care to prevent relapse.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or haven’t had your gums checked in a while, contact Howze Dental Group to schedule an appointment. Dr. Howze and Dr. Scott are here to provide compassionate, effective care to help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile. Don’t let gum disease jeopardize your oral and overall health—take the first step toward healthier gums today.