Summary:
Gum disease is considered one of those oral health issues that often go unnoticed.
This usually occurs when plaque builds up around your gums, leading to redness, swelling, and, if left untreated, even tooth loss. You might be stunned to know that nearly half of adults aged 30 and older show signs of gum disease, which makes early diagnosis even more important.
In fact, receiving appropriate care at the right time can prevent long-term damage and protect your overall health. Patients at Lubbock Dental Care receive gentle, thorough, and personalised gum disease treatment right here in Lubbock, TX.
In this article, we will cover:
- Understanding Gum Disease
- Common Signs and Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
- What Causes Gum Disease?
Continue reading as we take a closer look at the various gum disease treatments in Lubbock, TX. Let’s find out what effective care looks like in practice in this blog.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease does not occur abruptly; it often starts quietly. It can cause serious problems if left untreated or ignored. Gum disease usually begins as gingivitis, a mild form in which your gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious stage in which the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets of infection.
If gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to:
- Tooth loss
- Damage to the jawbone
- Higher risks for health issues like heart disease
Therefore, it is always recommended to see a professional dentist in Lubbock, TX, who will help you catch gum problems early and protect your smile.
Common Signs and Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
When the topic is about gum health, your mouth often gives you early warning signs if something is wrong. Paying attention to these small changes in yourself can help you catch problems before they turn serious.
Bleeding Gums
If you notice your gums bleeding while brushing or flossing, it may be due to irritation or infection. This is one of the earliest signs of gum disease.
Persistent Bad Breath
Persistent bad breath after brushing can indicate bacterial buildup below the gumline.
Gum Swelling or Redness
Healthy gums should generally look pink and feel firm. Whereas any sign of swollen, tender, or red gums often means inflammation.
Receding Gums
If your gums appear longer than before, it may be due to them receding, a common symptom of advancing gum disease.
Tooth Sensitivity
Sudden or increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods may occur when gum tissue wears down, exposing tooth roots.
Loose or Shifting Teeth
Teeth that wiggle or feel out of place usually mean that the supporting bone and gums are weakening.
When to Contact a Dentist
If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, do not worry. Early treatment can protect your gums, save your teeth, and prevent more serious oral health issues.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease can have multiple causes, but understanding the reason is the first step toward choosing the appropriate gum disease treatment in Lubbock, TX.
- Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing or flossing regularly allows plaque to build up around the gums.
- Smoking or tobacco use: These habits slow healing and make gums more prone to infection.
- Genetics: Some people are naturally more likely to develop gum problems.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, puberty, or menopause can make gums more sensitive.
- Medical conditions such as diabetes and immune disorders increase the risk of gum inflammation.
- Poor-fitting dental restorations: Crowns or bridges that do not fit properly can trap bacteria.
Knowing the exact cause of gum disease helps your dentist create a treatment plan that targets the underlying issues, promotes faster healing, and prevents the disease from returning.
Gum Disease Treatment Options at Lubbock Dental Care
When it comes to treating gum disease, early care makes a huge difference. Patients at Lubbock Dental Care receive customised treatment plans based on the severity of their condition. Here are some of the most common options your dentist might recommend for treating the issue:
a. Professional Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)
For treating gum disease, deep cleaning is often the first step.
- The process involves gently removing the plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
- The dentist smooths the tooth roots during root planing to prevent bacterial adhesion.
This procedure helps the gums reattach to the teeth and also reduces infection. It is ideal for patients with mild to moderate gum disease, especially when regular cleanings are not sufficient.
b. Antibacterial Therapy
Your dentist may recommend additional antibacterial treatments to control the infection further.
- These might include medicated mouth rinses or antibiotics placed directly into the gum pockets.
- They help reduce inflammation, eliminate harmful bacteria, and support healing.
Antibacterial therapy is often used alongside deep cleaning for better results.
c. LANAP or Laser Gum Therapy
Laser treatment is a modern, minimally invasive option for treating gum issues.
- It uses targeted laser energy that helps to remove infected tissue without cutting or stitches.
- Patients usually experience less discomfort and faster healing.
LANAP is helpful, especially for treating deep gum pockets that are hard to reach with traditional tools.
d. Surgical Treatment for Advanced Periodontitis
If your gum issue has become severe, surgical care may be necessary. Some of the standard procedures include:
- Flap surgery: lifting the gums to clean deep tartar deposits.
- Bone grafts: rebuilding bone lost due to infection.
- Soft tissue grafts: restoring receding gums.
Surgery helps protect the remaining teeth, prevent further bone loss, and restore gum health.
e. Ongoing Maintenance Care
Once your treatment is complete, regular follow-up is also essential.
- Patients usually follow a periodontal maintenance schedule every 3–4 months.
- These visits help control bacteria and prevent gum disease from returning.
Ultimately, consistent care is the key to long-term oral health and stable gums.
Patients Also Ask
- Is gum disease reversible?
Yes, it is. Early-stage gum disease can often be reversed with good oral care and professional cleanings. Think your gum disease is reversible? Consult your dentist today!
- Does gum disease treatment hurt?
Most treatments cause little to no pain, and your dentist will ensure you remain comfortable.
- What are the early signs of gum disease?
There are not one but multiple signs of gum disease. For instance, you might notice tender, red, swollen, or bleeding gums (gingivitis) and progress to bad breath. If you come across any such instance, it’s best to visit your dentist.
Conclusion
Early gum disease is easy to treat when caught in time, so taking action now can protect your smile for years. If you have been noticing early symptoms, do not wait; reach out to Lubbock Dental Care and Orthodontics to schedule a visit with us.
Takeaway
- Early gum disease is reversible with timely professional care.
- Ignoring symptoms like bleeding or swollen gums can lead to serious complications.
- Regular periodontal maintenance is essential for long-term gum health.