When considering your oral health, it’s easy to focus on your teeth. However, it is important that you understand the reason your teeth are alive and staying in place. At Muccioli Dental, we help patients recognize the value of their gums. Our comprehensive dental care services are not only designed to protect and improve your teeth, but they also address the health and condition of your gums. Here’s a closer look at periodontal health and why it should never be ignored.
What is the Purpose of Your Gums?
The gums, also known as gingiva, are the pink tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. Their purpose is to provide a seal around the teeth to protect the roots and help anchor the teeth in place. The gums also protect the underlying bone and ligaments that support the teeth. Additionally, healthy gums help prevent bacteria from entering the bloodstream and causing infections in other parts of the body. Proper oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly, is important for maintaining healthy gums.
What are the Signs of Unhealthy Gums?
When it comes to caring for your gums, the most important aspect is keeping them free of infection. This involves recognizing and treating gums that are showing symptoms of gum disease. The first warning signs of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, may include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums: Healthy gums are firm and pale pink in color. If your gums appear red, swollen, or feel tender to the touch, it could be a sign of inflammation.
- Bleeding gums: If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, it could be an indication of gum disease. Bleeding gums are often a sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease.
- Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth: Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth can be a sign of gum disease. Bacteria in the mouth can cause a foul odor or taste.
- Receding gums: If your teeth appear longer than usual or you notice a receding gum line, it may be a sign of gum disease. Receding gums can expose the roots of the teeth and cause sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Loose or shifting teeth: As gum disease progresses, it can cause the supporting bone and ligaments to weaken, leading to loose or shifting teeth.
If you experience any of these gum disease warning signs, it is important to make an appointment at Muccioli Dental as soon as possible for an evaluation and treatment. Early detection and treatment of gum disease can help prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.
How We Can Reverse Gum Disease
The treatment for gum disease at Muccioli Dental depends on the severity of the condition. In the early stages, gingivitis can often be reversed with professional dental cleanings and good oral hygiene habits at home. However, more advanced stages of gum disease require more extensive treatment.
Here are some ways our Johns Creek dental team may treat and reverse your gum disease:
- Scaling and Root Planing: This is a “deep cleaning” procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the root surfaces to help prevent future buildup.
- Antibiotics: Topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth.
- Laser therapy: This is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a laser to remove infected tissue and promote healing.
- Gum surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove diseased tissue and repair damage to the gums and bone.
- Bite adjustment: If a misaligned bite is contributing to the gum disease, adjusting the bite may be recommended.
It’s important to note that while these treatments can help reverse gum disease, maintaining good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental checkups and cleanings are critical to prevent gum disease from returning.
Your gums are the foundation of your smile. If they need more attention, start with a visit to Muccioli Dental. We offer a full menu of dental treatments for your teeth and gums.
Posted on behalf of Dr. Randy Muccioli, Muccioli Dental
Muccioli Dental - Johns Creek Dentist
6300 Hospital Pkwy, Suite 275
Johns Creek, Georgia 30097
Phone: (678) 389-9955