When my patients complain about red, swollen, irritated gums, I tell them they aren’t alone. In fact, according to The National Institutes of Health, nearly half of all adults over 30 and over 70% of adults 65 and older suffer from some form of gum disease. That’s why I work diligently to help my patients understand the signs, symptoms, and treatment options of periodontal disease.
So, if you want to learn how to keep your teeth and gums healthy, I urge you to continue reading and learn more about periodontal disease and its effects on your oral and overall health.
Watch for These Signs and Symptoms
Any of the following symptoms could indicate that you have some form of gum disease; these are the symptoms I see regularly in my patients:
- Puffy or swollen gums
- Red, dark red, or purple gums
- Tender gums
- Bleeding gums, especially when you brush and floss
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away
Your Treatment Options
When I diagnose my patients with gum disease, I make sure to explain what will happen if they don’t seek treatment and improve their dental hygiene:
- The bacteria in their mouths can enter their bloodstream and cause serious health issues.
- They could lose their teeth.
I’m quick to recommend one of the following treatment options to keep that from happening:
Routine dental cleaning—For minor cases of gingivitis, we can perform a routine dental cleaning to remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth.
Deep cleaning—If a regular dental cleaning isn’t enough, I recommend a deep cleaning to remove the infection and help your gums heal.
Gingivectomy—For more advanced cases of gum disease, I will use a soft tissue laser to perform a gingivectomy. Our dental laser allows for faster healing and less discomfort.
Fluoride varnish treatment—I recommend a fluoride varnish treatment for my patients 65 and over to protect the exposed roots of their teeth.
Need an Appointment in Allentown, PA?
If you think you may have gum disease or are due for a dental exam and cleaning, I look forward to hearing from you! At Evolve Dental Care, your oral health is my top priority, and I want to help you avoid gum disease and keep your teeth for a lifetime. You can contact my dental office at (610) 797-8245 to schedule an appointment.
