Gum treatment in Miami, Florida

To make sure your smile lasts a lifetime, seize the day and carry dental floss. Healthy teeth don’t just happen, you have to work for it. Bacteria damages your efforts daily, attacking tooth enamel and undermining the gum and bone that secure your teeth.

One sign that you have some form of gum disease is if your gums bleed when you brush or floss. Though you may not think twice about it, you should. 

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Bacteria in your mouth can cause cavities when it eats away at the hard white enamel covering the tooth above the gum line. Bacteria can also cause infection below the gum line, eroding the ligaments that hold the tooth in place.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, gum disease is the main reason for tooth loss in adults.

Poor dental hygiene, crowded or misaligned teeth, poor nutrition, obesity, smoking and use of tobacco products, aging, genetic abnormalities, hormonal changes due to pregnancy or menopause, extreme stress and systemic diseases such as diabetes can increase your risk of periodontal disease.

What Are Common Signs of Periodontal Disease?

When diagnosed with a gum disease you must be attentive and look for escalating symptoms that show advancement of the disease. Tender and/or bleeding gums, the recession of gum tissue, bad breath, a persistent aftertaste, painful chewing and pus between your teeth and gums are a few of symptoms you should look for.

If these symptoms are familiar, call Towncare Dental of West Kendall to discuss treatment. Acting quickly minimizes the damage to your teeth and gums. Unfortunately, gum disease is often a “silent” disease, meaning there may be few symptoms in the early stages. That’s why it’s so important to see your dentist regularly for teeth cleanings and preventive care.

What Are the Types of Gum Disease?

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and the only stage that can be cured. If ignored, it may lead to a more chronic illness – periodontitis -- a serious gum disease which could prompt tooth loss and be a detriment to your overall health.

When gums separate from your teeth, “pockets” form filling with plaque, tartar and bacteria. If untreated, these infections can bring about a loss of tissue and bone and, eventually, possibly teeth.

How is Periodontal Disease Treated?

Twice-a-year teeth cleanings, which polish teeth above the gum line, are helpful in eliminating gingivitis. However, if you have a more serious periodontal disease, bacteria below the gum line must be treated before the situation becomes critical.

Procedures used to treat periodontitis include scaling and planing, which remove plaque and tartar from your periodontal pockets and smooth the tooth root to eliminate bacteria. You may also need to use a medicinal rinse or need to take an antibiotic.

Gum disease is a serious and treatment shouldn’t be avoided. Also, frequent periodontal maintenance may be required to stop gum disease from spreading.

If you don’t pay attention to your periodontal issues, your smile will pay the price. To prevent this, our periodontist may offer treatment such as bone or tissue grafts or apply a tissue-stimulating protein to prompt growth of bone and tissue. In extreme cases, gum surgery may be needed.

What Can I Do at Home to Prevent Gum Disease?

To have a life filled with healthy smiles, you must commit to daily brushing and flossing and dentist visits at least twice a year. Our dental professionals at Towncare Dental of West Kendall are eager to assist you with this quest. Call us at (305) 403-9348 to get started.