Your gums support your teeth and are necessary for a healthy smile. One of the biggest risks to tooth health is gum disease, which is very prevalent among adults. An estimated 50% of adults over the age of 30 have some form of gingivitis or gum disease, which can result in bone and tooth loss. At Neville Dental Studio, we provide effective gum disease treatment at our dental centers in Horse Cave, Scottsville and Bowling Green, KY.
There are always bacteria in your mouth, but the bad bacteria that cause dental problems can be controlled with daily oral hygiene and routine dental care. If bacteria are allowed to flourish on the teeth, they can create plaque and tartar that irritate the surrounding gum tissue. Gingivitis and gum disease occur when the gum tissue is infected, which can cause the tissue to recede and become inflamed. Over time, the infection can cause tissue damage and bone loss, resulting in tooth loss and other serious complications.
When caught and treated in the early stages, gum disease can be stopped, even reversed in some cases. Knowing the early symptoms can help you recognize the disease and seek treatment to protect your teeth. Signs of gingivitis or gum disease can include:
- Swollen, tender gums
- Receding gums and pockets around teeth
- Bad breath
- Gums bleed easily when brushing or flossing
- Gum tissue is bright red or purplish
At Neville Dental Studio, our dentists and dental hygienists will perform gum exams during your checkups and cleanings. If we notice signs of gingivitis or periodontal (gum) disease, we will recommend treatment. In the early stages, this can include deep cleanings that are performed more frequently, usually every three months. More severe cases may need root planing to remove tartar from below the gum line or other treatments.
Do not let gum disease ruin your smile. Come see us at Neville Dental Studio for a checkup and cleaning. If you have gingivitis or gum disease, we can help you get it under control to protect your oral health. Call our clinic near you in Bowling Green, Horse Cave or Scottsville, KY, to book your appointment.
