Preventing and Combatting Gum Disease: Your Path to Healthy Gums
At Blue Bird Dentistry of Fredericksburg, we specialize in periodontics, which encompasses the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. This condition, characterized by inflammation and infection of the gum tissues, poses a significant risk to oral health, often leading to tooth loss in adults if left untreated.
Gum disease typically progresses through stages, starting with gingivitis, which manifests as symptoms like red, swollen gums, sensitivity, bleeding during brushing, and persistent bad breath. Without intervention, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, where gums recede, forming pockets around the teeth, potentially resulting in tooth and bone loss, as well as damage to soft tissues.
Prevention is key to maintaining healthy gums, and our team emphasizes the importance of regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups to remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of gum disease. However, for those already affected, effective treatment options are available.
Our skilled hygienists perform deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing, to gently remove tartar, calculus, and infected tissue, promoting gum health and preventing further deterioration.
Various factors contribute to gum disease, including poor oral hygiene, diabetes, smoking, hormonal changes, and certain medications. Additionally, recent studies highlight the link between untreated gum disease and systemic health issues like cardiovascular disease and diabetes complications, emphasizing the importance of prompt treatment.
Don’t let gum disease compromise your oral and overall health. Contact Blue Bird Dentistry of Fredericksburg today for a comprehensive consultation and screening, and take proactive steps toward achieving and maintaining healthy gums for a lifetime.