Combat Early Signs of Gum Disease with Treatment

Gum disease is a serious condition that affects many Americans each year. At its mildest, it can result in painful, swollen gums. At its worst, it can lead to tooth loss. At Curtis Family Dentistry, we carefully monitor each of our patients for any signs of gum disease. The earlier we notice the signs of gum disease, the easier it is to treat. In many cases, we can reverse the course of gum disease and protect your smile.

Gum Recession

Often, one of the first signs of gum disease is receding gums. While gums can also recede as a result of vigorous brushing, this usually happens when bacteria along the gumline has developed from plaque in to tartar, a harder material that irritates gums. When this occurs, Dr. Curtis and our team will often begin periodontal treatment to help restore the health of your gums.

Treating Receding Gums

Once we spot receding gums, our team will remove the plaque and tartar that is irritating your gums through a deep cleaning. If we find that your gums are infected or that gum disease is progressing into gingivitis, we may use medication to treat this issue. Luckily, we are often able to reverse gum disease if we can detect and treat it in its early stages.

Monitor Your Gum Health

One of the keys of early detection is knowing which symptoms to watch for. If you notice any changes in your gums like tenderness, swelling, or bleeding, these are early warning signs of gum disease. To reduce your risk of gum disease, practice a good oral hygiene routines that includes brushing twice daily for two minutes each time, flossing every day, and visiting our office regularly for cleanings and exams.

To ask our team any other questions about treating gum disease or to schedule your next visit, contact our office today!