Gum disease is a common problem. The CDC reports that 47% of adults over 30 years old have some form of gum disease. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth and bone loss. The sooner your gum disease is diagnosed the better the outcome. The Dental Space family dentistry clinic in San Marcos, TX provides safe, effective gum disease treatment to patients who exhibit symptoms.
Types of Gum Disease
The two most common types of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. Gingivitis causes pain and inflammation but doesn’t normally result in permanent damage to the gum or bone tissue.
Periodontitis is much more serious. In periodontitis, food and plaque buildup on teeth infects the surrounding gum tissue. This causes gum “pockets” to form around the teeth. Left untreated, the bone and surrounding gum can deteriorate to the point where a tooth may become loose and have to be extracted.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Have you been experiencing the symptoms of gum disease? The common symptoms of gum disease can include:
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums during eating, brushing, or flossing
- Receding gums (teeth appear to be getting longer)
- Bad breath
- Tooth aches
- Loose teeth
- Changes in the fit of partial dentures
If you’ve been experiencing any of the symptoms of gum disease in San Marcos, TX contact The Dental Space without delay.
Causes of Gum Disease
Gum disease is most often caused by plaque or tartar buildup along the gums and between the teeth. Poor oral hygiene is a leading cause of gum disease. Other causes of gum disease can include genetics, poor diet, other health conditions (such as diabetes) and smoking.
Treatment for Gum Disease in San Marcos, TX
Brushing and flossing after meals, eating a healthy diet, not smoking, and getting a regular dental exam and professional cleaning are the best ways to prevent gum disease.
Treatment for gum disease depends on the severity of the infection. In some cases, medications such as antibiotics may be sufficient. For more advanced cases, where tooth and gum damage have already occurred, a dental procedure such as a soft tissue graft may be needed to remove the unhealthy tissue. Further dental procedures may be needed to restore the function and appearance of the affected area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Care in San Marcos
Is The Dental Space a Kids-Only Dental Practice?
The dentists at The Dental Space see any patient from six months old through adulthood.
How Can I Make Sure My Teeth Stay Healthy Between Dental Visits?
There are several parts to a routine that will keep your teeth healthy. The first is regularly brushing, at least twice a day. Flossing at least once a day is also very important. Use a toothpaste with fluoride to prevent cavities from forming. And finally, avoid sugary foods and drinks, as well as tobacco products.
What Kind of Toothbrush Should I Use?
You should look for a soft bristled toothbrush, since medium and hard bristles will damage your gums.
Both maunal and electric toothbrushes do a good job of cleaning your teeth. If you go with a manual brush, look for one that has mixed bristle heights, as these do a better job of cleaning than those with flat bristles.
What Insurance Does The Dental Space Take?
The Dental Space takes most PPO plans, as well as Medicaid and CHIP. We do not take HMO plans at this time.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
Pain in the teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues are signs that something’s not right in your mouth. If you’ve been experiencing these early symptoms of gum disease, schedule an appointment with Dr. McCartor at The Dental Space as soon as possible. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth and bone loss.
The Dental Space provides outstanding dental care services to patients in San Marcos, TX and surrounding communities. Contact us online or call us at 512-667-9770 to schedule your appointment. The Dental Space accepts most forms of dental insurance and we provide patients with many payment options.
