
Treat gum disease thoroughly
What happens if I don't treat my gum disease?
The early signs of gum disease may be subtle and easy to overlook, but ignoring them can lead to a host of painful, unsightly, and expensive oral health issues. Left untreated, gum disease can affect not only your teeth and gums but also other areas of your body. Symptoms may include difficulty chewing, receding gums, elongated teeth, and even loose or missing teeth.
These are just a few of the dental problems that can result from gum disease. It can also have serious implications for your overall health. The bacteria that cause periodontitis can enter your bloodstream through infected gums, potentially leading to significant health issues in other parts of your body. Individuals with gum disease may also be at higher risk for conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
Who Is A Candidate For Gum Disease Treatment?
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Red or purple gum tissue
- Tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Bad breath
- Receding gum tissue
Treating Gum Disease
There are two types of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is characterized by tender gums that easily bleed, and it can be treated by visiting our Gresham dental office more frequently for dental hygiene appointments. We may also prescribe medicated mouthwash to improve your at-home oral care routine and prevent further gum infection.
Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease and may be identified by chronic bad breath, loose teeth, pus between teeth, and a persistent unpleasant taste in the mouth. To treat periodontitis, our Gresham dentists offer scaling and root planing or laser gum therapy. These treatments effectively remove bacteria and plaque from below the gum line, eliminating the infection and protecting the long-term health of your teeth and gums.