If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, or you notice unusual swelling when you look in the mirror and smile, you could have gum disease. This widespread issue affects up to half of all adults over 30, and without treatment, it can lead to numerous dental problems, including tooth loss.
Not only that, but untreated gum disease has been linked to serious health concerns, including stroke, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and pregnancy complications.
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the soft tissues that hold your teeth in place. It starts when the bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and carbs, which leads to plaque buildup. When the toxins in the plaque begin to cause redness, swelling, and bleeding, this is the early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis.
When the plaque buildup hardens, it turns into tartar, and this irritates your gums even more, causing pockets where bacteria thrive. When this happens, it can lead to bone loss, receding gums, sensitivity, and loose teeth. This advanced form of gum disease is known as periodontitis.
The good news is that gum disease is reversible if it’s caught early; that’s why we encourage every patient to visit us for a preventive checkup and cleaning every six months. This allows us to assess your oral health and remove the stubborn plaque your toothbrush can’t. Combined with good oral hygiene at home, this can help you avoid gum disease.
Several factors can contribute to unhealthy gums, and it’s important to know what can cause gum disease so you can be proactive about your oral health. Here are some of the biggest causes of this common dental concern:
I take my daughter here for all her teeth cleaning. The staff go above and beyond all standards in caring and takes excellent care her. I highly recommend this place!!!
- Minh
Dr. Do uses the Fotona Lightwalker® dental laser to safely and effectively eliminate infected gum tissue. This procedure, known as a gingivectomy, is more comfortable than traditional methods, offering less bleeding and faster healing.
Our dental laser coagulates blood vessels as it works and promotes cellular activity and tissue regeneration.
Gum disease affects millions of people, but it is largely preventable with consistent care. Total Wellness Dental emphasizes daily habits, regular checkups, and professional cleanings to keep gums healthy and reduce the risk of infection.
Early prevention protects your teeth, helps avoid discomfort, and supports a confident, long-lasting smile. Simple steps every day can make a big difference in maintaining strong gums and overall oral health.
Preventing gum disease starts with a combination of at-home care and professional support.
Here’s what you can do to maintain healthy gums:
Following these habits consistently helps prevent inflammation, bleeding, and more serious gum issues. Regular professional care allows our dental team to catch early signs of disease and provide treatment before it progresses.
Protect your smile and prevent gum disease by scheduling a visit with Total Wellness Dental.
Please call (281) 463-7258 to arrange an appointment.
Our experienced team will guide you through proper oral care techniques, provide professional cleanings, and answer your questions about gum health.
Dr. Hieu Do is the proud owner of Total Wellness Dental. A compassionate leader and lifelong learner, Dr. Do believes in empowering both her team and her patients to reach their fullest potential, personally, professionally, and in their oral health. Her leadership philosophy centers on leading by example and fostering an environment of growth, trust, and positivity.
Dr. Do attended the University of Texas School of Dentistry, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in 2014, following her Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene from Wharton County ...
If you’d like to speak with us about gum disease and how we work to alleviate symptoms and restore your oral health, please feel free to reach out to our dental office! The caring team at Total Wellness Dental will work with you to achieve healthy gums and a beautiful smile.
Please give us a call at (281) 463-7258 to learn more or schedule an appointment.
Certain dental tools make loud sounds that some patients find unpleasant; that’s why we offer noise-canceling headphones to block those sounds, giving you a more relaxing experience. When you’re wearing our noise-canceling headphones, you can relax, listen to your favorite music, and forget what’s happening around you. This is just one of the ways we help you stay calm and comfortable during treatment.