Gum disease therapy includes a range of treatments designed to prevent, manage, and reverse the effects of periodontal disease. Periodontal maintenance is essential for preventing and managing gum disease, which gradually destroys the bone and tissues that support your teeth. While daily brushing and flossing help reduce plaque buildup, professional cleanings are necessary to remove hardened tartar and bacteria from below the gumline. Our team specializes in advanced periodontal care to stop the progression of gum disease and protect your long-term oral health.

Signs of gum disease

Gum disease often develops without noticeable pain, making regular dental checkups crucial for early detection. Some common symptoms include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums

• Bleeding while brushing or flossing

• Receding gums or teeth appearing longer

• Persistent bad breath

• Loose or shifting teeth

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an evaluation as soon as possible.

How gum disease progresses

Gum disease begins as gingivitis, a mild inflammation that can be reversed with professional cleanings and good oral hygiene. If left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis, where bacteria spread below the gumline, causing bone loss and deep pockets around the teeth. In severe cases, advanced periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and may require surgical intervention.

Risk factors for gum disease

While plaque is the primary cause of periodontal disease, other factors can increase your risk, including:

• Smoking and tobacco use

• Diabetes and other systemic health conditions

• Chronic stress

• Teeth grinding or clenching

• Certain medications

• Poor nutrition

Preventing gum disease

The best way to protect your smile from gum disease is through a combination of at-home care and professional cleanings. Here’s how you can maintain healthy gums:

• Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• Floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth

• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria buildup

• Eat a balanced diet and avoid excessive sugar

• Visit our office for routine cleanings and exams

Our approach to gum disease therapy

At Hayden Lake Family Dental, we take a proactive approach to gum disease treatment, tailoring each plan to your specific needs. Common treatments include:

• Scaling and root planing – Deep cleaning to remove bacteria and tartar from beneath the gums

• Laser gum therapy – Minimally invasive treatment to target infected tissue and promote healing

• Antibiotic therapy – Medicated treatments to help eliminate bacterial infections

• Gum grafting – Restoring gum tissue lost due to recession

• Ongoing maintenance – Regular periodontal cleanings to prevent disease recurrence

The connection between gum health and overall wellness

Gum disease isn’t just a dental issue—it’s linked to serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. By treating gum infections early, we help protect not just your smile but your overall well-being.