Many people live with gum disease without even realizing it. At OKC Smiles, we want you to know that gum disease is not only incredibly common but also highly treatable if caught early. The lack of pain in its initial stages often leads to neglect, but this silent condition can cause significant damage to your smile and overall health. Early detection and consistent care are essential to protecting your oral health and well-being.
What Is Gum Disease and Why Should You Care?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It begins with gingivitis, a mild form of inflammation caused by bacteria in plaque due to poor oral hygiene. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a serious condition that affects the gums and even the bones that support your teeth. What starts as simple gum irritation can escalate to severe oral health issues that are harder and more expensive to treat.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
The tricky part about gum disease is that it often doesn’t hurt in the early stages. However, there are warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored. Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing, bad breath, or a consistent metallic taste in your mouth can all be early indicators. Other symptoms include gum swelling, recession, or pockets forming between your teeth and gums. Even loose teeth can signal advanced gum disease. Awareness is key, as catching these signs early keeps treatment simpler and more effective.
Consequences of Untreated Gum Disease
When gum disease is allowed to progress, the consequences can be both severe and far-reaching. Untreated cases often lead to tooth loss and bone deterioration. This not only affects the appearance of your smile but can also compromise dental implants, cosmetic procedures, and dentures. Beyond oral health, gum disease has been linked to systemic issues including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even cognitive decline. It’s a sobering reminder that gum health plays a crucial role in protecting your overall health.
How We Treat Gum Disease at OKC Smiles
At OKC Smiles, Dr. Kevin Murray and our experienced team are committed to providing effective treatments to stop gum disease in its tracks. One common procedure is periodontal scaling, a non-surgical deep cleaning that removes tartar and plaque buildup below the gum line. We also offer root planing, a technique that smooths root surfaces to prevent bacteria accumulation and minimize inflammation. Our treatments are minimally invasive, highly effective, and designed to preserve your oral health for the long term.
Prevention Tips for Long-Term Oral Health
Healthy habits are your best defense against gum disease. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day removes plaque and keeps your gums healthy. Avoiding tobacco products also reduces your risk significantly. Most importantly, regular visits to OKC Smiles for professional cleanings are essential. These cleanings allow us to catch any early signs of gum disease before they worsen. Early intervention means less invasive treatments and lower costs down the line.
Take Control of Your Gum Health Today
Gum disease is incredibly common, but the good news is that it’s highly treatable with timely care. At OKC Smiles, Dr. Kevin Murray and our team are ready to create a personalized treatment plan to restore your oral health and protect your overall well-being. Don’t wait until symptoms worsen. Schedule a periodontal evaluation at OKC Smiles today and take the first step toward a healthy, confident smile. We proudly serve Oklahoma City, Norman, and Moore with compassionate, expert care.
Contact OKC Smiles:
405-634-7303
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
13900 S Western, Suite 300
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
73170