Gum Disease: Signs, Risks, and How We Treat It
Gum disease is one of the most common dental conditions in the United States and one of the most underdiagnosed. Many people don’t realize they have it until significant damage has already occurred. At Augusta Dental in Henderson, NV, Dr. Alan Sevy is committed to early detection and effective treatment of gum disease to protect not just your smile but your total body health.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It begins as gingivitis, a mild inflammation caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form that attacks the bone and tissue holding your teeth in place. Advanced periodontitis can result in tooth loss.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Many patients are surprised to learn their gums are in trouble because gum disease often develops without obvious pain. Warning signs include gums that bleed when you brush or floss, red, swollen, or tender gums, persistent bad breath, gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth, loose or shifting teeth, and a change in your bite. If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to see Dr. Sevy.
The Link Between Gum Disease and Your Overall Health
The mouth is a gateway to the rest of the body, and research has confirmed strong links between gum disease and serious health conditions including heart disease, stroke, diabetes complications, respiratory disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Treating gum disease is not just about preserving your teeth, it’s a meaningful step toward protecting your overall health.
How We Treat Gum Disease at Augusta Dental
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. In early stages, a thorough professional cleaning along with improved home care may be sufficient. For more advanced disease, Dr. Sevy may recommend scaling and root planing which is a deep cleaning procedure performed under local anesthesia that removes bacteria from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to discourage future buildup. We may also recommend more frequent maintenance visits.
Schedule A Visit! If your gums are bothering you or you want information on gum treatment or gum contouring then please call Augusta Dental at 702-616-1942. You can also visit us at 1485 W. Warm Springs Rd., Ste. 101, Henderson, NV. Early treatment makes all the difference.