Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common oral health issue. Gum disease begins when harmful bacteria in the mouth infect the gums. Over time, this can lead to inflammation and damage to the bone that supports your teeth. Many people in the Washington, DC metro area, Wesley Heights, Cathedral Heights, Spring Valley, Bethesda, the Palisades, and the surrounding communities suffer from this condition and seek professional help for effective treatment. At Slate Dental, Washington DC dentist Dr. John Slate provides periodontal disease treatment.
What are the Signs of Gum Disease?
Common symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
Contact our office if you notice any of these symptoms. Regular dental check-ups are crucial in detecting periodontal disease early. Dr. Slate will recommend a periodontal screening for all patients who visit his office.
What Happens If You Don’t Treat Gum Disease?
Without treatment, patients are at risk of many unwanted dental issues. Untreated periodontal disease can lead to gum recession. This is when the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth or its root. Gum disease can also lead to tooth loss. The infection can destroy the bone that supports your teeth, causing them to become loose and eventually fall out.
The Link Between Gum Disease and Your Overall Health
You might think gum disease only affects your mouth, but research shows it can impact your entire body. Healthy gums help protect more than just your teeth—they play an important role in your overall well-being. Here’s how gum disease is connected to other health problems:
Heart Disease and Stroke
When gums are infected, bacteria can enter your bloodstream and travel to your heart. These germs cause inflammation that may:
- Damage blood vessels
- Increase plaque buildup in arteries
- Raise your risk of heart attacks and strokes
Studies show people with gum disease are 2-3 times more likely to have heart problems.
Diabetes
Gum disease and diabetes create a dangerous cycle. High blood sugar makes gum infections worse and infected gums make blood sugar harder to control. This can lead to more serious diabetes complications
Breathing Problems
Every time you breathe, bacteria from infected gums can travel to your lungs. This is dangerous for older adults.
Bacteria can:
- Increase risk of pneumonia
- Worsen COPD and asthma
- Make lung infections more severe
Pregnancy Concerns
Pregnant women with gum disease have higher risks of low birth weight, high blood pressure, and premature birth. Pregnancy gingivitis is a problem that can develop because of an increase in hormones like progesterone.
Many pregnant women can develop gum irritation and inflammation. We recommend more careful and thorough dental care during pregnancy to protect both mom and baby.
Treating gum disease can improve these health risks. Don’t ignore red or bleeding gums. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Slate to keep your mouth and your body healthier.
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Washington, DC
Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is a serious infection that can damage your gums and even lead to tooth loss if left untreated. At our Washington, DC practice, Dr. John Slate provides effective treatments to stop gum disease and protect your smile.
The most common treatment for early or moderate gum disease is a special deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. When Dr. Slate scales the gums, he removes built-up plaque and tartar (hardened bacteria) from both above and below your gumline. He then smooths out the roots of your teeth to help your gums reattach properly. This thorough cleaning helps eliminate bacteria and gives your gums a chance to heal.
In some cases, Dr. Slate may place antibiotics in the gum pockets after a deep cleaning. These medications help control harmful bacteria and prevent the disease from getting worse.
How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?
Gum disease can cause serious problems for your oral health, but the good news is there are simple ways to prevent it. Here are some key steps you can take every day to keep your gums healthy:
Brush and Floss the Right Way
Brush your teeth twice a day (morning and night) with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth where your brush can’t reach. We recommend that you floss before you brush to remove leftover food from your gums. Then the active ingredients will reach between the teeth and gums. Ask Dr. John Slate for more tips to make sure you’re cleaning your teeth effectively.
Eat a Gum-Friendly Diet
Choose fruits and vegetables (like apples, carrots, and leafy greens) that are rich in vitamins to strengthen gums. Limit sugary snacks and acidic drinks (like soda and candy), which can harm your gums and teeth. Dr. Slate can give you personalized advice on foods that support healthy gums.
Avoid Smoking and Manage Stress
You may want to quit smoking. Tobacco weakens your gums and makes gum disease worse. High stress can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight gum infections. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or exercise.
Visit Dr. Slate Regularly
We recommend professional cleanings and checkups even if you brush and floss every day. At routine visits, our dental hygienists remove hardened plaque that can be difficult to remove at home. Dr. Slate can also catch early signs of gum disease with a thorough dental exam.
Supportive Periodontal Therapy
If you develop gum disease, you need to prioritize your oral health and dental appointments. Regular follow-up visits with Dr. John Slate are essential. These visits help monitor your condition and ensure that your treatment is effective.
Our team will be able to identify any progression of the disease and implement treatment. Maintaining oral health through supportive periodontal therapy can prevent the recurrence of the disease. This means that patients need to follow Dr. Slate’s guidance as well as daily oral hygiene routines.
Treat Gum Problems
Call Slate Dental today for periodontal disease treatment in Washington, DC at (425) 584-3751. You can also request an appointment with us online.
Dr. John Slate encourages patients from the Washington, DC metro area and Wesley Heights, Cathedral Heights, Spring Valley, Bethesda, the Palisades, and the surrounding communities to schedule regular appointments.