Your smile is an important part of your first impression. It's also essential for your overall health and well-being. But gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can affect both your smile and your health. It's a common problem, affecting nearly half of adults in the United States.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It's caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. If plaque isn't removed regularly, it can harden and turn into calculus, also known as tartar. This can irritate your gums, causing them to become red, swollen, and bleed easily.
If left untreated, gum disease can progress and lead to several serious problems, including:
•
Bone loss: The bacteria that cause gum disease can damage the bone that supports your teeth, leading to loose teeth and tooth loss.
•
Increased risk of other health problems: Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory problems.
•
Premature birth and low birth weight: Studies have shown that pregnant women with gum disease are at an increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight babies.
Why You Need Professional Help
Gum disease is a serious problem, but it's also preventable and treatable. The best way to prevent gum disease is to brush and floss your teeth regularly and visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
However, if you already have gum disease, you need to see a professional for treatment. A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the treatment of gum disease. They can assess the severity of your gum disease and develop a treatment plan to help you get your gums healthy again.
Treatment for gum disease may include:
•
Scaling and root planing: This procedure removes plaque and calculus from your teeth and below the gum line.
•
Antibiotics: In some cases, your periodontist may prescribe antibiotics to help control the infection.
•
Surgery: In severe cases of gum disease, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue and restore the health of your gums.
The Importance of Early Treatment
The earlier you seek treatment for gum disease, the better. Early treatment can help prevent serious complications and protect your oral and overall health. If you have any concerns about your gums, don't hesitate to see a periodontist. They can help you get your smile and your health back on track.
Dental Blog - San Antonio • Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists We post dental blogs to pique your interest and educate our San Antonio community about topics related to dentistry, dental implants, and oral health. Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists, 1130 E Sonterra Blvd, Suite 120, San Antonio, TX 78258 • (210) 614-4700 • aestheticperiodontist.com • 5/12/2025 • Related Phrases: Dental Implants San Antonio TX •
Your smile is an important part of your first impression. It's also essential for your overall health and well-being. But gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can affect both your smile and your health. It's a common problem, affecting nearly half of adults in the United States.