Are Your Gums Healthy?
Gum disease is more common than you might think, and it often starts quietly. You might notice a little bleeding when you brush, occasional bad breath, or slightly puffy gums. It’s easy to ignore at first, but gum disease can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss without treatment.
At Vargas Dental Associates in Bowie, MD, we want to help you catch gum disease early—when it’s easiest to treat. By understanding the signs and taking action, you can protect your smile and keep your gums healthy.
How Gum Disease Develops
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, starts when bacteria build up along the gumline, irritating the gums and causing inflammation. It progresses in three stages:
- Gingivitis: This early stage causes redness, swelling, and bleeding when brushing or flossing. At this point, gum disease is reversible with professional cleanings and good at-home care.
- Periodontitis: If left untreated, gingivitis worsens. The gums begin to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that trap bacteria. Over time, this leads to gum recession, bone loss, and increased tooth sensitivity.
- Advanced Periodontitis: At this stage, the damage becomes severe. The infection weakens the structures that support the teeth, leading to mobility and, in some cases, tooth loss.
The earlier we catch gum disease, the easier it is to treat and the less damage it can cause to your smile.
How Scaling and Root Planing Can Help
When gum disease reaches the point where brushing and flossing alone aren’t enough, deep cleaning treatments like scaling and root planing can help stop its progression.
Scaling removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, clearing out bacteria that cause inflammation. Root planing smooths the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to cling to them and helping the gums heal and reattach.
This non-surgical treatment is one of the most effective ways to manage gum disease and prevent it from getting worse. Once the gums are healthy again, regular cleanings and good home care can help keep them that way.
Protect Your Smile and Your Health
Gum disease doesn’t just affect your teeth—it can impact your overall health too. Research has linked periodontal disease to heart disease, diabetes complications, and other serious health concerns.
If you’ve noticed symptoms like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum tenderness, don’t wait to take action. At Vargas Dental Associates in Bowie, MD, we’re here to help you restore and maintain healthy gums. Contact our dental office today to schedule an evaluation and take the first step toward a healthier smile.
