When Do You Need Periodontal Therapy in Odessa?

Seems hard to believe, but research indicates that as many as 80 percent of adults in the United States have some degree of gum disease. And as if that weren’t enough of a problem, many don’t even know they have this chronic bacterial infection. Furthermore, the bacteria that cause gum disease have been linked to other systemic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. Therefore, knowing the signs of gum disease is imperative so you can begin periodontal therapy in Odessa as soon as possible.

What are the Signs of Gum Disease?

Gum disease is divided into stages. The first is called gingivitis. At this point, your gums may look more red than pink, be swollen and may be sensitive enough to bleed when you brush and floss.

Don’t mistake this sensitivity for a sign that you should stop brushing and flossing as often as you do. To the contrary, bleeding gums are an indication that a more stringent at-home oral hygiene routine may be necessary.

How Can I Avoid Gum Disease?

Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle so you can brush your teeth and gums. Brush for at least two minutes. Then floss to remove food particles trapped between teeth as well as plaque.

Plaque build-up along your gums is how gum disease starts. There are bacteria in plaque. If not removed with regular brushing and flossing, these bacteria can invade soft tissue, which eventually leads to gum disease.

When is Gum Therapy in Odessa Necessary?

When gum disease is not stopped at the beginning stage of gingivitis, it can advance to become periodontitis. At this point, the signs are more serious and obvious. They include:

• Gum recession, Odessa
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
• Enlarged gum pockets around your teeth
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pus in between your teeth and gums

If not addressed with proper gum therapy in Odessa, periodontitis may ultimately necessitate tooth extraction. To avoid this, the appropriate periodontal therapy must begin. Depending on the degree of gum disease, your dentist will recommend scaling and root planing or soft tissue laser treatment. Antibiotic therapy may be added to either of these treatments.

Don’t ignore the initial signs of gum disease. Be aware of your gum health and if you notice redness or bleeding, contact your dentist in Odessa to schedule an appointment.

Meet the Doctor

Dr. Steve W. Cobb is a family and cosmetic dentist. He and his staff offer a wide range of general, restorative and cosmetic treatments for patients throughout West Texas. Call the office today to schedule an appointment.