It is important patients not only feel happy and confident in their oral appearance but also that they prioritize preventive practices to keep their teeth strong as well. Typically, if you brush your teeth well twice daily and floss thoroughly at least once a day, your smile can withstand much wear and tear over the years. Still, sometimes infections targeting your other oral structures complicate these plans and lead to serious discomfort and more. In today’s blog, your Southlake, TX, dentist takes a closer look at the damaging effects of periodontal disease and highlights treatment options our team may discuss to address the issue.
The Dangers of Gum Infections
Whether you are aware of it or not, your smile is constantly facing a barrage of attacks from a multitude of threats. Without thorough and consistent preventive care, teeth, tissues, and entire smiles have succumbed to these issues. Among the various factors out there that threaten your oral health, however, gum disease is arguably the most common threat. It occurs when oral bacteria work their way beneath the gum line and attach to the roots of your teeth.
As the infection progresses, it begins to cause more and more serious damage to your structures. Whereas early infection may be characterized by sensitive gums, later stages might include bleeding gums, redness and inflammation, and the loosening of teeth. If you begin to notice sensitivity or discomfort in your gums, it may be time to speak to a dental professional. To learn more about the signs, symptoms, and possible treatment options, give our team a call.
Targeting Your Teeth Roots
When oral bacteria are able to nestle their way beneath your gumline, they can reside relatively protected thanks to your gum tissues. Over time, plaque and tartar will begin to accumulate and continue to cause a rift to form between the gum tissues and teeth roots. As this happens, you may experience significant discomfort, sensitivity in the gums, tenderness, bleeding, and more. Moreover, infection will only continue to wreak havoc beneath the gumline, requiring more care than simple flossing to manage. To keep your roots safe and strong, your dentist may recommend the need for a periodontal cleaning.
Understanding Treatment Options
Typically, professional dental cleanings occur once every six months during your routine preventive visit. When at-home care and these visits fall short, a periodontal cleaning may be recommended to restore your health. This process involves carefully pulling back the gums and thoroughly removing the plaque from the roots. It may require multiple visits to fully complete, and we welcome your questions if you wish to learn more.
Call Our Team to Learn More
Gum disease and infection can cause several complications, including discomfort, sensitivity, and even tooth loss. To learn more about your periodontal treatment options or to schedule your appointment, contact Tate Family Dentistry in Southlake, TX, by dialing (817) 481-6364 today. The sooner treatment is sought, the better your smile’s outcomes are of a successful recovery.