Gum Disease Treatments at Vivid Dental, Houston TX

Through many years of study, we know that oral hygiene and the state of oral health plays an integral role in general health and well-being. Brushing and flossing teeth, and maintaining regular six-month dental check-ups not only keeps your smile looking good, but also helps you preserve your health and avoid a variety of serious health conditions.

Gum disease works silently, progressing without obvious warning signs until the disease has set in. Millions of Americans have some form of gum disease, many without knowing it. Today, this condition is actually the number one cause of adult tooth loss. Existing health conditions such as diabetes may put one at a higher risk for the development or progression of gum disease, as do the hormonal fluctuations women experience on a regular basis. Smokers and those who use tobacco products are also advised to maintain a high level or oral hygiene to minimize the harmful effects on gum tissue. Other risk factors associated with gum disease include:

Inadequate oral hygiene
Genetics
Certain medications
Chronic health conditions

Although there are certain causes of gum disease, this condition comes down to an imbalance in the amounts of good versus bad bacteria in the mouth, as both are naturally occurring. Dietary habits, lifestyle habits, stress, genetics, and a host of other triggers can set off imbalance, resulting in inflammation of the oral tissues. As harmful bacteria thrive, they will feed on any sugars present on the teeth and gums, and subsequently produce toxins that eat away at healthy structures. As inflammation increases, gingivitis develops. At this early stage of gum disease, the gums may appear red and swollen. A bad taste or odor may also develop.

Recognizing these early signs is extremely important; as gingivitis is a condition that we can treat and reverse. At this point, any existing infection and plaque can be eliminated, and gum tissue can return to a healthy state.

Left untreated, gingivitis will progress into full-blown periodontitis, in which the areas below the gum line become affected by bacterial activity. This stage of gum disease is manageable, but not reversible. To preserve the tooth and bone structure, regular professional care for gums is necessary.

Your professionals at Vivid Dental prefer to take a proactive approach to minimize bacteria, improve oral hygiene when necessary, and treat any signs of gum disease as early as possible.

Keep your smile vivid and healthy! Contact us for your dental care.