Gums are the foundation of your smile. When they’re healthy, everything else—from your breath to your bite—works better. When they’re not, problems can escalate quietly. Here’s what every patient in Rogers should know about preventing, spotting, and treating gum disease.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease (periodontal disease) starts when bacteria accumulate at and under the gumline. Early inflammation is called gingivitis and is often reversible. When infection spreads deeper and bone is lost, it becomes periodontitis, which requires professional treatment to control.
Why It Matters
- Tooth loss risk: Periodontitis is a leading cause of adult tooth loss.
- Systemic links: Poor gum health is associated with diabetes control challenges and cardiovascular concerns.
- Quality of life: Tender gums, shifting teeth, and bad breath affect daily comfort and confidence.
Early Warning Signs
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Puffy, red, or tender gums
- Receding gumline or teeth that look “longer”
- Loose teeth or spaces opening between teeth
If you notice these symptoms, schedule a periodontal evaluation promptly.
Preventing Gum Disease
- Professional cleanings: Most adults do best with 6-month visits; some benefit from 3–4 month maintenance.
- Daily hygiene: Brush twice daily with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste; floss or water-floss once daily.
- Lifestyle support: Don’t smoke; manage dry mouth; stay hydrated.
- Night guard if needed: Reduces trauma that can worsen recession.
How We Treat It
- Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing): Removes bacterial deposits below the gums and smooths root surfaces to help gums reattach.
- Localized Antibiotics Or Rinses: Target bacteria in deep pockets when indicated.
- Maintenance Visits: 3–4 month periodontal maintenance to keep bacteria controlled.
- Gum Grafting: Restores coverage to protect roots where recession is advanced.
- Crown Lengthening For Restorative Needs: When a tooth breaks at the gumline, this procedure exposes more tooth structure so a crown can be placed predictably.
Explore related services under Periodontal Services including Crown Lengthening and Gum Grafting.
Home Routine That Works
- Brush for two minutes, focusing where teeth meet gums.
- Floss gently with a C-shape around each tooth.
- Consider a water flosser if you have bridges, implants, or dexterity challenges.
- Finish with an alcohol-free antimicrobial rinse.
Your Smile, Supported For Life
Healthy gums support comfortable chewing, fresher breath, and a confident smile at every age. If you’re overdue, a simple checkup could make a major difference.
Noticed bleeding gums or recession? Contact All About Smiles in Rogers, AR at 870-669-1507 to Schedule a Consultation and get a personalized periodontal plan.