10001 N May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73120-2730
Gum Disease
Everything You Need to Know About Gum Disease
Oral health plays a huge role in your overall well-being, and gum disease is a common issue that can escalate if ignored. Rely on OKC Dentistry to help ensure that doesn’t happen. If you’re seeking preventative care or gum disease treatment in the Greater Oklahoma City area, look no further. Our team specializes in restoring gum health and keeping our patients pain-free. Read further to learn what gum disease is, ways to manage it effectively, and how we can help you maintain healthy gums.
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Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease won’t just sneak up on you overnight. There are always several signs. Early detection makes treatment more effective and less invasive, so act quickly if you notice any of these gum disease symptoms:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums, especially while brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Gums that appear to pull away from your teeth or cause teeth to loosen
- Painful chewing
Recognizing the Gum Disease Stages
Gum disease progresses in stages. Here’s a quick timeline of how it develops:
Stage 1 – Gingivitis
This is the earliest stage of gum disease, caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and bleeding. But there’s good news: Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral hygiene and care.
Stage 2 – Periodontitis
If gum disease isn’t treated in its initial stage, it becomes periodontitis. At this stage, the gums start pulling away from the teeth, forming pockets that can collect bacteria. As a result, damage to gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth becomes more likely.
Stage 3 – Advanced Periodontitis
The final stage of gum disease is advanced periodontitis. Teeth may loosen or fall out, and the infection can spread to other areas of the body. This stage often requires more extensive gum treatment options, which may include surgery.
Proven Gum Disease Prevention Tips
Prevention is key when it comes to gum disease. It’s always easier to prevent the problem than to correct it. Stay proactive with the following gum disease prevention measures to significantly lower your risk of developing gum disease:
- Brush and Floss Daily – Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove debris and plaque between teeth.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly – Professional dental cleanings and exams can catch early signs of gum disease before it worsens. Aim for check-ups twice annually.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet – A balanced diet that limits sugary foods can prevent plaque buildup. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins A and C to boost gum health.
- Use Antibacterial Mouthwash – Rinse with a therapeutic mouthwash to reduce bacteria in your mouth and prevent plaque buildup.
- Quit Smoking – Tobacco use weakens your gum tissue and puts you at a higher risk for gum disease.
Our Gum Disease Treatment Options
If you’re already experiencing gum disease symptoms, don’t panic. Several treatment options are available depending on how far the condition has progressed. We’ll customize a treatment plan based on your unique needs. It may include:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Deep Cleaning – A scaling and root planing treatment will remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline and smooth the roots to promote healing.
- Medications – Gum disease medication, such as antiseptic mouth rinses and antibiotic gels, can help reduce infection and inflammation.
Surgical Treatments
- Flap Surgery – This involves lifting the gums to remove tartar and then stitching the tissue back in place.
- Bone and Tissue Grafts – Grafts can help regenerate bone or tissue if gum disease has damaged them.
- Guided Tissue Regeneration – This procedure helps regrow lost bone by placing a special material between the bone and gum tissue.
Why You Should Choose OKC Dentistry for Gum Disease Treatment
OKC Dentistry will prioritize your comfort and health. Thousands of patients throughout the Greater Oklahoma City area have improved their gum health with our trusted care. Among the reasons they trust us are:
Expertise and Technology
Our team uses advanced tools and proven techniques to deliver effective gum disease treatment.
Personalized Care
We take a tailored approach to every patient, ensuring the right treatment plan for their oral health needs.
Focus on Prevention
Education and prevention are at the heart of what we do. We don’t just treat gum disease. We help you prevent it from coming back.
Contact Us in Oklahoma City Today
Are you ready to take control of your gum health? Don’t wait until gum disease progresses to advanced stages. Reach out to our expert dentists at the first sign of an issue to discuss your personalized gum disease treatment options. We want you to be proud of your smile, so contact us today to schedule a consultation.
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