Gum Disease Treatment – Houston, TX
Tackling Gum Disease & Keeping Your Smile Healthy
Gum disease is one of the most common oral health problems across the globe, affecting an estimated one out of every two adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Fortunately, Dr. Johnson offers thorough, custom-tailored options for gum disease in Houston. So, if your gums are red, swollen, or bleeding, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at our office! The sooner you do, the higher the chances are of us being able to manage and reverse your symptoms to keep your smile healthy.
Why Choose Downtown Houston Dental for Gum Disease Treatment?
- Streamlined, Accessible, & Convenient Dentistry
- Conveniently Located in Downtown Houston
- Serving Houstonians for 40+ Years
What is Gum Disease?
When people think of gum disease, they often think of gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of the infection. However, it is possible for it to turn into periodontitis if it’s left untreated. This can have severe consequences on your oral and overall health, including tooth loss. Not only that, but there isn’t a way to fully cure it, only to manage it. That’s why it’s so important that you don’t take the “wait and see” approach when you notice that something is wrong, even if it’s something as seemingly harmless as bleeding when you floss.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Here are a few symptoms we recommend keeping an eye out for between visits:
- Gums that are more swollen than usual
- Chronic bad breath
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
- Teeth that look longer (this could be due to gum recession)
- A change in your bite
- Permanent teeth that feel slightly (or extremely) loose
Remember, when they’re left unaddressed, the infection can advance and cause permanent damage to your teeth and gums. So, it’s important that you call us ASAP.
How Do We Treat Gum Disease?
There isn’t a cookie-cutter answer. That’s why it’s so important that you schedule an appointment! During this visit, Dr. Johnson will learn about the symptoms you’ve been experiencing, review your dental history, and complete a comprehensive oral exam. Then, he will share his findings as well as his recommendations on the best way to proceed.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning, is a gum disease treatment in Houston that takes place over the course of two steps. During the first, Dr. Johnson will clear all plaque and tartar from the surface of your smile, as deep as the pockets of your gums. Following that, he will smooth out the surface of the roots of your teeth, which will allow your gums to reattach and protect this vulnerable structure from being attacked by bacteria.