Gum disease has been called the silent threat to your dental health. Because while teeth problems like cavities have more pronounced symptoms, gum disease, also called periodontal disease, creeps forward with few signs, if any. So, by the time you notice it, the impacts of periodontal disease could be permanent.
The good news is that at Jeffrey J. Tibbs DDS, we recognize that a healthy smile depends on a solid foundation, which is your gums. As a result, our team is skilled at detecting and treating gum disease in Winston Salem, even in its earliest stages. Here's how we do it.
More Good News – Gingivitis Is Reversible!
Gum disease is caused by the same plaque-causing bacteria that lead to tooth decay and a smile with less luster. When those bacteria invade your gum tissue, they cause a minor infection which might make your gums appear red and puffy, with mild bleeding when you brush. These are the tell-tale signs of gingivitis, the mildest type of periodontal disease.
With routine dental cleanings and an informed at-home oral health routine, we can help your gums fully recover.
Advanced Gum Disease Is Treatable
If you miss your dentist visits, then you may notice increasing redness, with tenderness and bleeding gums more frequently. Signs of more severe gum disease, called periodontitis, are:
- Rougher gum tissue
- Pockets around your teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums make teeth look longer
- Abscesses, or small bumps on your gums filled with foul-tasting, white fluid
To prevent tooth loss, our expert dentists can provide a deep cleaning and a procedure to smooth out your gum tissue, eliminating the pockets that gather bacteria. But at this stage, you'll need to work harder to keep your gums from further receding.
Your Winston Salem Dentist Treats Gum Disease
Dr. Tibbs and his team work hard to protect your teeth and their foundations. We encourage you to maintain regular dental visits so that we can stop any potential gum disease.
If you haven't seen your dentist in a while, we're here to help. So don't hesitate to give us a call and set up an appointment.