Healthy Gums. Healthy Smiles.
 A beautiful, healthy smile depends upon healthy gums, (healthy gums hold teeth in place). They are the foundation of good oral health, and most often the place we start any dental treatment with our guests.
Today, more people experience tooth loss from periodontal (gum) disease than cavities. In fact, over 85% of the population has some level of periodontal disease, due to the problem being misdiagnosed or simply ignored.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is basically an infection of the gum tissue. Tissue below the gumline is attacked and decay spreads to form deep pockets. Depending on your level of decay, the symptoms may vary, or there may be no noticeable symptoms at all. Gums can recede, leaving teeth vulnerable to decay, abscesses and loss - without bleeding or tenderness. However, symptoms and signs can include:
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Puffiness or tenderness of the gums
- Halitosis or bad breath
- Loose feeling teeth
- Receding or detaching gum tissue
- Chronic bad breath or unusual taste in mouth
- Loose teeth
- Bite changes
Treatment
The two stages of gum disease are gingivitis, a reversible form of gum disease, and periodontitis, a more damaging and severe form of gum disease. Modesto Smiles uses advanced training and technology to diagnose and treat periodontal disease before it becomes a significant health threat. The team of highly trained family dentists and dental hygienists uses a variety of new procedures, including soft tissue management, to ensure healthy gums and the retention of your teeth. Depending on your level of infection, your family dentist may recommend one or a combination of treatments.
Prevention
Smoking, chewing tobacco, diabetes and other systemic illnesses, certain medications such as steroids, crooked teeth, defective fillings, and pregnancy are just a few of the risk factors that contribute to the development of gum disease. To help prevent gum disease in your family, follow a strict daily brushing and flossing routine, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and schedule semi-annual cleanings with our family dentist at Modesto Smiles.
Smile Makeover Gallery
How to Choose a General, Restorative or Cosmetic Dentist
Prevent decay with regular check-ups from the trusted family dentists at Modesto Smiles. Early detection of periodontal disease can help your family dentist treat and contain decay. Call or email our family dentist today for your periodontal therapy appointment.
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