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Receive Thorough Treatment for Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and can lead to damage to the bone supporting your teeth if not treated.
What Are the Consequences of Leaving My Untreated Gum Disease?
The early signs of gum disease may be subtle and easy to overlook, but ignoring them can lead to a host of painful, unsightly, and expensive oral health issues. Left untreated, gum disease can affect not only your teeth and gums but also other areas of your body. Symptoms may include difficulty chewing, receding gums, elongated teeth, and even loose or missing teeth.
These are just a few of the dental problems that can result from gum disease. It can also have serious implications for your overall health. The bacteria that cause periodontitis can enter your bloodstream through infected gums, potentially leading to significant health issues in other parts of your body. Individuals with gum disease may also be at higher risk for conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
Who is Eligible for Treatment for Gum Disease?
Most patients are eligible for gum disease treatments, which are designed to improve oral health. Healthy gums should be pale pink, firm, and fit tightly around each tooth. If your gums do not meet these standards, you may benefit from gum disease treatments. Signs that treatment may be necessary include:
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Red or purple gum tissue
- Tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Bad breath
- Receding gum tissue
Effective Treatment for Gum Disease
There are two types of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is characterized by tender gums that easily bleed, and it can be treated by visiting our Fort Worth dental office more frequently for dental hygiene appointments. We may also prescribe medicated mouthwash to improve your at-home oral care routine and prevent further gum infection.
Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease and may be identified by chronic bad breath, loose teeth, pus between teeth, and a persistent unpleasant taste in the mouth. To treat periodontitis, our Fort Worth dentists offer scaling and root planing or laser gum therapy. These treatments effectively remove bacteria and plaque from below the gum line, eliminating the infection and protecting the long-term health of your teeth and gums.