Your gum health is an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy smile. As you get older, you are at a higher risk for gum disease. Whether it is the early stages of periodontal disease, gingivitis, or more advanced forms of periodontitis, treatment is needed to stop this progressive disease from jeopardizing your oral and overall health. At Pure Smiles Dentistry, we offer effective general dentistry options for treating the different stages of gum disease at our office in Marietta.

Gum disease affects over fifty percent of adults over the age of thirty at some point in their life. Treatment can stop and even reverse the effects of gum disease; but if left untreated, it can lead to serious health issues. Not only can it eventually result in tooth loss, it can put you at higher risk of serious health problems. Gum disease has been linked to strokes, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some types of cancer.

Gum disease is a form of infection that can affect the tissue surrounding teeth. Treatment involves stopping this infection. This can be accomplished with deep cleanings of the teeth, medications to fight the infection and other methods to treat the infected gum tissue. If caught early, the gum tissue can be restored to health and prevent further oral and overall health problems.

Symptoms and Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease begins with gingivitis. This is caused by bacteria that can spark a gum infection. Excessive plaque and tartar lead to gingivitis and lifestyle choices like smoking or tobacco use can increase the risk of gum disease. Regular professional cleanings in combination with daily home oral care help fight gingivitis, which can have the following symptoms:

• Receding gums
• Bleeding when brushing
• Tender or swollen gum tissue
• Bad breath or halitosis

If you have any symptoms of gum disease or gingivitis, beginning treatment right away can help stop the progression. Contact Pure Smiles Dentistry today to schedule your next checkup and cleaning. Our dental team will check for signs of gum disease and offer a treatment plan to help you maintain your oral and overall health.