Protect Your Smile With Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease is a very common oral issue but if left untreated can lead to a loss of teeth. That’s why Your Family Dental in Merritt Island offers excellent gum disease treatment.

Warning signs of gum disease

If you notice any of these signs of gum disease, call Your Family Dental right away to schedule an appointment:

• Swollen, red, or tender gums
• Bleeding when you brush or floss
• Dark or red gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Soft gums that feel spongy

These are symptoms of gingivitis. Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease and easily treated. If left untreated gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, advanced gum disease, which leaves permanent damage.

Symptoms of advanced gum disease include:

• Teeth feeling loose
• Pain when chewing
• A bad taste in your mouth
• Sores in your mouth
• Receding gums
• Teeth that are starting to separate

What causes gum disease?

Although genetics can play a role, gum disease is primarily caused by plaque and tartar build-up between your teeth and gums. This allows bacteria to grow and multiply leading to infection and inflammation.

Brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day will help prevent this build-up. We also highly recommend getting regular professional cleaning at Your Family Dental to allow your hygienist to spot any issues early and prevent gum disease altogether.

How is gum disease treated?

If treated early enough, the effects of gingivitis can be reversed and repaired. Advanced gum disease damage can’t be reversed but it can be stopped from progressing further.

Our experts at Your Family Dental in Merritt Island have several methods for treating gum disease:

• Scaling and root planing
  • This is a deep clean that removes bacteria between your teeth and gums. The roots of your teeth will also be smoothed to help prevent bacteria build-up
• Antibiotics
  • Antibiotics may be used to treat infection
• Pocket reduction surgery
  • If your gum has formed a pocket that houses bacteria, your dentist may surgically fold back the gum tissue, remove bacteria, and smooth damaged bone to allow the gum to reattach to healthy bone.

If you have any sign of gum disease call us at Your Family Dental today. The earlier we can start treatment, the better the results will be.