Gum Disease
Expert Gum Disease Treatment in Tyler, TX
Protect your smile with effective, personalized periodontal care at Smith Dental Care.
Your gums play a vital role in maintaining the foundation of a healthy smile. When gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, goes untreated, it can lead to serious consequences, including tooth loss and even systemic health issues. At Smith Dental Care in Tyler, TX, we offer comprehensive and compassionate gum disease treatment tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re in the early stages of gingivitis or dealing with more advanced periodontitis, our experienced dental team is here to help you reclaim your oral health.
Restore Your Gum Health and Protect Your Smile at Smith Dental Care. Schedule your evaluation today!
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a chronic infection of the gums and supporting tissues that hold your teeth in place. It’s caused primarily by the buildup of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If plaque is not properly removed through daily brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, irritating the gums and leading to inflammation and infection.
There are two main stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis – the early, reversible stage, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing.
- Periodontitis – the advanced stage, where the infection spreads below the gumline, causing gum recession, bone loss, and loose teeth.
At Smith Dental Care, we stress the importance of early detection and treatment. When caught in the gingivitis stage, gum disease can often be reversed. If allowed to progress, it can become a lifelong condition requiring ongoing management.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Because gum disease can develop gradually and painlessly, many patients don’t realize they have it until damage is already underway. Knowing the warning signs can help you seek treatment early.
Common symptoms include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Gum recession
- Pus between gums and teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in bite or the fit of partial dentures
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a periodontal exam with our team as soon as possible. Early treatment can prevent permanent damage and save your natural teeth.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is most often caused by poor oral hygiene, but several other risk factors can increase your susceptibility:
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Genetics – a family history of gum disease
- Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or menopause
- Medical conditions, especially diabetes and autoimmune diseases
- Medications that reduce saliva flow or cause gum overgrowth
- Stress, which affects your immune response
Our team at Smith Dental Care will take a full medical and dental history to identify contributing factors and create a customized treatment plan that works for you.
Our Gum Disease Treatment Options
We offer a full spectrum of treatment options, from non-surgical therapies for mild cases to advanced care for more complex conditions. Your treatment plan will be based on the stage of gum disease and your overall health.
- Deep Cleaning: Scaling and Root Planing
Also known as deep cleaning, this non-surgical procedure removes plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline. The tooth roots are smoothed to prevent future bacterial accumulation and allow the gums to reattach to the teeth. - Antibiotic Therapy
In some cases, we may apply antibacterial medication directly into the gum pockets or prescribe oral antibiotics to control infection and promote healing. - Periodontal Maintenance
After initial treatment, ongoing maintenance cleanings every 3 to 4 months are essential to keep gum disease under control and prevent recurrence. - Referral for Advanced Periodontal Care
If your case requires surgical intervention, such as gum grafting or pocket reduction surgery, we’ll refer you to a trusted local periodontist and coordinate care for the best outcome.
Our goal is to provide gentle, effective treatment in a comfortable and supportive environment. We’ll answer all your questions and make sure you feel informed and confident every step of the way.
The Link Between Gum Disease and Whole-Body Health
Periodontal disease doesn’t just affect your mouth. It can have serious consequences for your overall health. Research has shown connections between gum disease and:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes complications
- Respiratory infections
- Pregnancy issues, including low birth weight and preterm delivery
When bacteria from the gums enter the bloodstream, they can trigger inflammation throughout the body. That’s why treating gum disease isn’t just about saving your smile – it’s about protecting your entire well-being.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
While you cannot always stop gum disease, preventing gum disease starts with good oral hygiene and regular dental care. Here’s how to keep your gums healthy:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth and below the gumline
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria
- Avoid tobacco products, which increase your risk of gum disease
- Visit Smith Dental Care regularly for cleanings and exams
If you’ve already been treated for gum disease, consistent follow-up care is essential. We’ll work with you to create a personalized maintenance plan and catch any early signs of recurrence.
Why Choose Smith Dental Care for Periodontal Treatment?
At Smith Dental Care, we take a patient-first approach to every treatment we provide. When it comes to gum disease, you can count on:
- Experienced, compassionate care from a trusted local dental team
- State-of-the-art diagnostic tools for accurate assessments
- Customized treatment plans designed for your unique situation
- Comfort-focused care with a gentle touch and supportive environment
- Commitment to education, helping you understand your condition and how to manage it
Our mission is to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile for life, and that starts with healthy gums.
Don’t Wait! Protect Your Smile Today
Gum disease is common, but it’s also preventable and treatable with the right care. If you’re experiencing symptoms or haven’t had a gum health check in a while, now is the time to act.