The Importance of Detecting Gum Problems Early

Although gum problems are pretty common, they shouldn’t be taken lightly. Gum issues will negatively impact your oral health and eventually ruin your smile. At Vivid Dental, Houston, Texas, we take gum concerns seriously. Routine visits with our dentist, Dr. Monti Harpalani, can help prevent gum problems that threaten your oral health. Early detection and treatment of gum issues will protect your teeth and gum health and preserve the beauty of your smile.

Common Gum Problems

Poor oral hygiene habits can lead to numerous problems with your gums, such as:

• Bleeding gums
• Gum inflammation (gingivitis)
• Periodontal disease
• Receding gums
• Abscesses on your gums

Gingivitis is, in essence, an early stage of periodontal disease. It’s caused by plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth. Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen, bleeding gums when you brush or floss your teeth. These symptoms are early warning signs of unhealthy gums.

Gingivitis, if left untreated, can escalate into periodontal disease, a severe gum infection that can damage your gum tissue, teeth, and supporting bone structure of your teeth. Inflamed, bleeding gums and receding gums are common symptoms of early periodontal disease. As the infection spreads, it can cause blistery abscesses on your gums and destroy tooth bone structure, causing your teeth to become loose and fall out. In addition to ruining your teeth, bacteria from periodontal disease can enter your bloodstream, putting you at risk of developing severe health issues.

Importance of Detecting Gum Problems Early

When caught early enough, gingivitis can be treated, and its ill effects reversed to protect and preserve your smile. Improved dental hygiene and regular dental cleanings can rid your teeth of plaque, tartar, and bacteria that can damage your gums and teeth. Early detection and treatment of gingivitis can prevent it from escalating into periodontal disease, sparing you the pain and trouble of dealing with severe gum infection and prospective medical issues.

Routine dental care from Vivid Dental, Houston, TX, can prevent gum disease and preserve your oral health. Schedule a dental exam and cleaning today by contacting Dr. Monti Harpalani at 281-809-4902.