Recognize Early Signs of Gum Disease
"I love Spearmint! I am usually terrified of the dentist but they have treated me so kindly that I am no longer nervous every time I come in. They have also helped me improve my dental health for which I am very thankful!"
- Brenda C.
Gum disease can be challenging to detect in its early stages, but some signs and symptoms to look out for include the following:
- Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
- Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums or teeth that appear longer than usual
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Painful chewing or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, scheduling an appointment with our experienced dental team as soon as possible is essential. We can diagnose your condition and recommend the best treatment options to restore oral health.
Scaling and Root Planing
One of the most effective treatments for gum disease is scaling and root planing. This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums and smoothing the tooth roots to prevent bacteria buildup. This can help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy gum tissue.
During the scaling and root planing procedure, our dental team will use special tools to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. We may also recommend antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses to help eliminate bacteria and prevent further infection.
Periodontal Maintenance
After gum disease treatment, it is essential to maintain healthy gums with regular periodontal maintenance appointments. This involves cleaning the teeth and gums to remove any remaining bacteria and plaque buildup.
Our dental team will also monitor your gums for any signs of inflammation or infection and recommend additional treatments if necessary. With proper care and maintenance, you can achieve healthy gums and prevent further damage to your oral health.
Surgical Treatments
In some cases, more advanced stages of gum disease may require surgical treatment to restore oral health. We offer a variety of surgical treatments to help our patients achieve healthy gums, including:
- Gum grafting: This procedure involves removing healthy tissue from one area of the mouth and grafting it onto the affected area to promote healthy gum tissue growth.
- Pocket reduction surgery: This procedure involves reducing the size of the pockets between the teeth and gums to prevent bacteria buildup and promote healthy gum tissue growth.
- Bone grafting: This procedure involves grafting bone tissue onto the affected area to promote healthy bone growth and prevent tooth loss.
Our experienced dental team will work with you to determine the best treatment options for your needs and goals.
Preventing Gum Disease
The best way to prevent gum disease is to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing regularly and visiting our dental office for routine checkups and cleanings. We also recommend lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or improving your diet, to promote healthy gums and oral health.
Compassionate Care for Healthier Gums
Good dental hygiene includes attentive care of your teeth and gums. But sometimes, gums need extra help to prevent the onset and effects of gum disease.
At Spearmint Dental & Orthodontics, in Princeton, TX we want to help you prevent and treat gum disease before it deteriorates your smile and becomes a dental emergency. So, at every visit, our team checks for signs of gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontitis. Catching and addressing it right away can help save you from potential tooth loss and extensive treatment.
When preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease, there are several steps we take to help you ensure that your gums and teeth are as healthy as possible. During your visit, we will always begin with a dental exam, measuring the depth of pockets around each tooth. From here, we will take an X-ray to identify signs of decay and gum disease within your jaw, gums, and teeth. From this point, we will work closely with you to formulate a treatment plan and stop gingivitis and periodontal disease, which always starts with thorough cleaning.
We know dental work can produce anxiety for many, which is why we do our absolute best to make sure your experience is easy and efficient.
The important thing to remember is that no mouth is hopeless! Even if you already have gum disease, our team at Spearmint Dental & Orthodontics, in Princeton, TX can help. Many people experience anxiety or shame around dental care — but rest assured, we’ve seen it all and we won’t judge. Don’t suffer from gum disease and deteriorating teeth. Let our team help.
Schedule Your Gum Disease Treatment Today
If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, don’t wait to seek treatment. We offer comprehensive gum disease treatment at Spearmint Dental & Orthodontics in Princeton, TX, to help our patients achieve healthy gums and a beautiful smile. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and learn more about our services.