Do you have tender, swollen gums? Maybe you’ve noticed bleeding gums when you brush or floss? These could be signs of gum disease, a common oral health issue that affects millions of Americans.
We understand the impact gum disease can have on your smile and overall well-being at Flax Dental. Renowned dentist Dr. Hugh Flax knows that gum disease is much more serious than an inconvenience when you floss. Over time, you can experience significant side effects and health risks.
We want patients to be well-informed about gum disease and its risks to their health. We educate our patients on the signs of gum disease at our Sandy Springs dental office, and how to prevent it. Our dental office also provides restorative dentistry treatments to the public in Sandy Springs, Atlanta, GA.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, typically begins with the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on your teeth. When not removed through proper brushing and flossing, this plaque hardens into tartar. This leads to irritation and inflammation of the gums. Common factors that contribute to gum disease include:
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Genetics
- Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or menopause
- Diabetes or other systemic illnesses
- Certain medications
Long-Term Effects on Overall Health
Gum disease is not just a concern for your oral health, it can also impact your entire body. Research has linked gum disease to several systemic conditions:
- Heart Disease: Gum disease inflames your gums, which can allow harmful bacteria to enter your bloodstream. Once in the blood, these bacteria may increase your risk of heart disease. It can also increase the risk of other problems, such as heart attacks or strokes.
- Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes. The infection and inflammation caused by gum disease can affect how your body uses insulin. It may lead to higher blood sugar levels and make it more difficult to manage diabetes.
- Respiratory Problems: The bacteria from gum disease can be inhaled into the lungs, which may cause respiratory infections. This is a problem for people with lung conditions like asthma or COPD.
- Pregnancy Complications: For pregnant women, gum disease can increase the risk of serious complications. It is linked to premature birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia. Keeping your gums healthy during pregnancy is essential for your well-being and the health of your baby.
Gum Disease Treatment Options in Atlanta, GA
Early stages of gum disease, known as gingivitis, can often be reversed with professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene at home. However gingivitis can progress to periodontitis without treatment. Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease that requires intervention.
Flax Dental offers state-of-the-art treatment options, including dental lasers for gum disease management in Sandy Springs. Laser dentistry provides precise, minimally invasive procedures with remarkable results. Here’s how it works:
Gum Contouring
If you feel self-conscious about an uneven gum line, laser dentistry can help. Using dental lasers, we can gently reshape your gum tissue to create a balanced, attractive appearance. This procedure is precise, allowing for improved aesthetics with minimal discomfort and a shorter healing time compared to traditional methods.
Pocket Reduction
Gum disease can create deep spaces, called pockets, between your teeth and gums. These pockets trap bacteria, which can harm the surrounding tissue.
Laser technology is a powerful tool for treating gum disease. It targets and removes harmful bacteria from these pockets without affecting healthy tissue. Lasers also help your gums heal and reduce the size of the pockets. This process protects your gums and helps stop gum disease from getting worse.
Gum Disease Therapy
For patients with advanced gum disease, our advanced laser systems provide a revolutionary approach to treatment. Lasers can precisely remove infected tissue. They also stimulate your body’s natural ability to regenerate healthy gum tissue. This process is less invasive than traditional gum surgery. It canalso lead to to faster recovery times and improved outcomes.
Dr. Flax and our expert team will tailor a treatment plan to address your specific needs. He ensures a comfortable and efficient experience.
Gum Disease FAQs
Learn more about gum disease treatment in Atlanta and Sandy Springs with answers to these questions:
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Gum disease can develop gradually, and the symptoms aren’t always easy to notice at first. That’s why you should pay attention to changes in your gums and teeth. Here are some common signs that may indicate you have gum disease:
- Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums
- Bleeding Gums When You Brush or Floss
- Persistent Bad Breath
- Receding Gums
- Loose or Shifting Teeth
Is gum disease reversible?
The good news is that gum disease can be reversible, but it depends on how advanced it is. Gum disease has two main stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and is reversible with proper care. If you brush, floss, and get professional dental cleanings, it can help heal your gums.
But if you don’t treat gingivitis it can turn into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease. At this stage, the infection damages the tissues and bone that support your teeth. While gum disease isn’t fully reversible, it can be managed with gum disease treatment.
Are dental lasers safe for treating gum disease?
Yes, dental lasers are a safe and effective option for treating gum disease. Laser dentistry uses advanced technology to target infected gum tissue and remove harmful bacteria. Lasers are a popular choice for patients and dentists. They are more precise and comfortable than traditional options.
Can I prevent gum disease?
Yes, you can prevent gum disease with good oral hygiene and healthy habits! Gum disease is often caused by plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria that builds up on your teeth and gums. When you keep your teeth and gums clean, you can stop gum disease before it starts.
Here are some tips to help you prevent gum disease:
- Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
- Floss Daily
- Rinse with Mouthwash
- Visit the Dentist Regularly
- Eat a Balanced Diet
- Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco
Heal Your Gums
Do you have gum pain? Call Flax Dental for gum disease treatment in Atlanta and Sandy Springs, GA, at 470-635-3604. You can also schedule an appointment on our website. If you have questions about your gum health, please let us know. We’re here to help you.