Can Gum Disease Be Cured?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious condition affecting more than half of Americans over 30. While preventable in most cases, the progressive gum infection continues to be one of the leading causes of tooth loss in individuals 35 and over. Main Street Dental Smiles is pleased to offer periodontal services to keep you smiling your best for years to come. The question is, can gum disease be cured?  

Gum Disease: What Is It and What Are Its Causes?

Gum disease is a devastating infection and inflammation of the gums, bone, and tissues supporting the teeth. It is usually painless early on, so it often goes undetected. The primary cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. If plaque is not removed through daily brushing, flossing, and routine dental cleanings, it hardens to tartar, which builds up on the teeth and gum line. That triggers an inflammatory response, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth and form spaces known as periodontal pockets. 

As the condition progresses, the pockets deepen, providing the ideal environment for harmful oral bacteria to thrive. The tissues and bone supporting the teeth begin to deteriorate, leading to bone loss, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. 

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

The early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, is characterized by red, tender, swollen, and bleeding gums. As the condition progresses, it often causes persistent bad breath, a bad taste in the mouth, gum recession, longer-looking teeth, and loose teeth. Patients often report that their teeth no longer fit together the way they did.

If you experience signs of gum disease or if you have any concerns, contact Main Street Dental Smiles to schedule an appointment. The sooner you start treatment, the better the outcomes.

How Is Gum Disease Treated? 

We will start with a non-surgical deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing. It involves cleaning off plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and above and below the gum line, followed by cleaning the tooth roots and smoothing out any rough areas. That promotes gum tissue healing and discourages future plaque buildup. In some cases, we may recommend antibiotics or even surgical intervention to control the infection. 

Can Gum Disease Be Cured?

Gum disease is often reversible when treated in its earliest stage, called gingivitis. However, once it progresses, it cannot be fully cured. The good news is that a custom periodontal maintenance plan can help keep the condition from advancing and wreaking havoc on your oral health. That includes meticulous oral hygiene at home and regular exams and cleanings every 3-4 months. Our team at Main Street Dental Smiles will work alongside you to keep your gums as healthy as possible. 

Gum Disease Treatment and Maintenance Near Me in Whitesboro, TX

At Main Street Dental Smiles, we are proponents of prevention for long-term healthy smiles. We encourage our valued patients to keep up with their routine dental exams and cleanings. If we uncover any signs of gum disease, we will recommend prompt treatment to prevent the condition from progressing. We invite you to call 903-564-3451 to schedule your appointment or book one online today!