When it comes to keeping your smile healthy, you may have heard of gingivitis, but what is gingivitis exactly? This common condition is actually the earliest stage of gum disease, and it’s something that many people will experience at some point. Luckily, with proper care and periodontal services at Austin Laser Dentist, you can treat and prevent gingivitis. 

If your gums are sore, inflamed, or bleed easily, don’t ignore it. These are all signs of gum disease, which requires professional treatment. Get the care you need with periodontal services at Austin Laser Dentist. Call our Austin, TX, clinic at (512) 346-4690 for scheduling now!

But first, let’s dive deeper into what gingivitis is and how you can keep your gums in great shape.

What Is Gingivitis and How Common Is It?

So, what is gingivitis? Gingivitis is inflammation of the gum tissue, usually caused by the buildup of plaque around teeth.

Ok, but what is plaque? Well, plaque is a gummy accumulation of bacteria and food that forms on teeth after eating or drinking. If it’s not removed by brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to gum irritation. This irritation causes redness, swelling, and even bleeding, especially when you brush your teeth.

You’re not alone if you’ve ever dealt with gingivitis—it’s incredibly common! In fact, nearly half of all adults experience some form of gum disease in their lifetime, with gingivitis being the mildest form. The good news? Gingivitis is totally treatable and even reversible if caught early.

What Can You Do About Gingivitis?

If you’re wondering what you can do to tackle gingivitis, don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to get your gums back in shape. First, prioritize twice daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste and have a floss session at least once a day. Flossing is especially important because it helps remove the plaque that toothbrushes can’t.

Professional cleanings are also key in fighting gingivitis. Our Austin, TX, dentist and hygienists use specialized tools to remove built-up plaque and tartar during routine cleanings. If you need more targeted care, periodontal services (like scaling and root planing) might be ideal to give your gums the attention they need. 

How to Prevent Gingivitis

Now that you know what gingivitis is, let’s talk about prevention. The best way to keep gingivitis at bay is with good oral hygiene habits. Never skip brushing and flossing, and attend twice-yearly dental check-ups and cleanings. 

You can also boost your gum health by eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals – especially vitamin C, which helps support healthy gums.

Drinking the recommended amount of water daily helps, too! Water clears food particles and gingivitis-causing bacteria away, keeping the teeth and gums moist and clean. And if you use tobacco products, consider quitting, since tobacco use is a major risk factor for developing gum disease.

Treat Gingivitis with Laser Dentistry in Austin, TX

So, what is gingivitis? It’s a common, mild form of gum disease that can cause gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. While gingivitis is common, it’s also preventable and treatable with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits to Austin Laser Dentist. 

If you think you have gingivitis, don’t hesitate to seek periodontal services with Dr. Helen Ragsdale. Request an appointment here or call (512) 346-4690 for information and scheduling now!

Gum disease is a silent menace that can wreak havoc on oral health if left unchecked. Despite its common occurrence, many individuals may overlook or dismiss the early signs, leading to severe consequences down the line. Our Austin dentist is here to help you understand the signs of developing periodontal disease.

If you suspect that your gum health is at risk, it’s essential to visit a top-rated dentist in Austin, TX, as soon as possible. So, don’t wait – contact Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist now. You can reach our team at (512) 346-4690 for scheduling.

Understanding the indicators of gum disease is crucial for maintaining optimal oral hygiene and preventing its progression. Here are the top five signs to watch out for:

Bleeding Gums 

Among the initial indications of gum disease, bleeding gums often stand out, especially when brushing or flossing. Healthy gums are typically resilient and do not bleed during routine oral hygiene practices. 

When gums do bleed, it’s a sign of inflammation and sensitivity, commonly triggered by the accumulation of plaque and tartar along the gum line. Neglecting this symptom can worsen gum problems, potentially resulting in advanced deterioration of gum health and, in severe cases, tooth loss.

Persistent Bad Breath

Chronic bad breath can be a telltale and embarrassing sign of gum disease. The bacteria that thrive in the pockets between the teeth and gums release foul-smelling gases, causing persistent malodor, despite regular oral hygiene. 

Receding Gums

Receding gums (which is where the gum tissue starts pulling away from the teeth) expose dental roots and create pockets where bacteria can accumulate. This not only compromises the structural integrity of the teeth but also increases the risk of infection and tooth decay. 

Receding gums may manifest as teeth appearing longer than usual or sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. Prompt intervention by our Austin dentist is necessary to prevent further gum recession and restore gum health.

Swollen or Tender Gums 

Inflammation and tenderness of the gums are common symptoms of gum disease, often accompanied by redness and swelling. These signs indicate an immune response to bacterial infection in the gums. 

Without proper treatment, the inflammation can progress, leading to more severe forms of periodontal disease and potential tooth loss. Regular dental check-ups can help detect early signs of gum inflammation and prevent its progression.

Loose or Shifting Teeth

As gum disease advances, the tissues that hold the teeth in place (namely the gums and jawbone) become compromised. This can result in loose or shifting teeth, changes in bite alignment, and difficulty chewing. 

Without intervention, advanced gum disease can lead to edentulism (tooth loss) and the need for extensive dental procedures (such as implants or dentures). Early detection and treatment are crucial for preserving tooth stability and overall oral health.

Gum Disease Treatment in Austin, TX

Periodontal disease is a common yet often overlooked oral health concern that affects almost half of all individuals aged 30 and over. Being vigilant for the early signs of periodontal disease can help catch the condition early and prevent its progression. Don’t ignore the signs—contact Dr. Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist today. You can reach us online or at (512) 346-4690 for booking and information.

Have you ever heard of periodontal disease? Sometimes, the condition goes by the name of gum disease. But no matter what you call this disease, it is a prevalent oral health issue that can have significant consequences if left untreated. Understanding the development of periodontal disease is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing long-term damage. That’s why our dentist in Austin, TX, is here to help.

Are your gums looking redder or feeling more sore than usual? These could be warning signs of progressing gum disease. Take action now – contact Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist today. You can reach our team at (512) 346-4690 for information and appointments. 

Periodontal disease is sneaky, as many people unknowingly live with the condition. In this blog, our dentist in Austin, TX, explains how periodontal disease starts, how it progresses, and the warning signs that indicate its worsening. Additionally, we explore the various treatments available to slow or even reverse the progression of this pervasive dental ailment.

The Beginning: Gingivitis

Typically, periodontal disease begins with a mild and reversible form of gum inflammation known as gingivitis.

But what causes gingivitis? Well, it usually starts with poor oral hygiene. 

When we fail to brush and floss appropriately, plaque (a sticky residue consisting of food debris and bacteria) accumulates along the gumline. If we do not remove this residue properly, it leads to gum irritation and inflammation. 

This initial stage of periodontal disease often presents with symptoms such as redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing or flossing. Luckily, it is reversible, making early intervention with our dentist in Austin, TX, key.

Progression to Periodontitis

Untreated gingivitis can develop into a major problem – periodontitis. This severe form of gum disease is an active infection that can wear away at oral tissues, including the:

• Teeth
• Gums
• Jawbone

This means that untreated periodontitis may lead to loose teeth, shifting teeth, and even tooth loss.

Signs of Worsening Periodontal Disease

There are a few signs that gum disease is getting worse, including:

• Receding Gums: As periodontitis progresses, it destroys gum tissue and exposes the roots of teeth. At this point, you may notice an increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
• Persistent Bad Breath: The bacteria responsible for gum disease can result in persistent bad breath.
• Changes in Tooth Alignment: Advanced periodontal disease can lead to tooth migration, altering the appearance and function of one’s bite.  
• Pus Formation: In extreme cases, pus between the teeth and gums may develop, indicating a major infection.

Treatment Options

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to treat or even reverse the disease.

• Professional Dental Cleanings: Regularly removing plaque at yearly dental cleanings is the best way to prevent gum disease.
• Scaling and Root Planing: This procedure is similar to dental cleanings, but it is more thorough. It goes beyond the gumline to remove plaque and tartar while also smoothing the tooth roots to promote gum reattachment.
• Antibacterial Medications: Topical or oral antibiotics can help control bacterial infection and inflammation.
• Surgical Interventions: In advanced cases, surgical procedures such as flap surgery or bone grafting may be necessary to restore damaged tissues and improve gum health.
• Laser Treatments: Dental lasers are ideal for treating periodontitis, as the light energy disinfects the area and promotes healing.

Take Charge – Schedule an Appointment with Our Dentist in Austin, TX

Experts believe that two out of every five adults are currently living with gum disease. Could you be one of these people? Take a proactive approach and schedule a checkup at Austin Laser Dentist today. Our dentist in Austin, TX, can assess the health of your gums and make treatment recommendations, guiding you toward a healthier, happier smile. Request your appointment online or at (512) 346-4690 now!

Our periodontal (gum) health is key to a healthy smile. However, gum disease can take a major toll on this important tissue. And, if left untreated for too long, gum disease can transition into periodontitis, which is a severe form of the disease. Unfortunately, periodontitis treatment may be the only way to save a smile from continued damage.

Don’t give gum disease a fighting chance – get periodontitis treatment today with Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist. Our dentist in Austin, TX, can help you reinstate the health of your smile before tooth loss becomes a real threat. Schedule your appointment today at (512) 346-4690.

While it may start as mild gingivitis, gum disease can very rapidly progress to periodontitis. In this blog post, we delve into what periodontitis is, explore various periodontitis treatment options, and discuss why seeking timely intervention is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile.

What is periodontitis?

Unfortunately, gum disease is a part of life for roughly half of all adults aged 30 and over in the United States. But what exactly is this common condition?

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory condition of gingival tissue. Over time, this inflammation can lead to the destruction of the bone and connective tissues supporting the teeth, resulting in tooth loss if not addressed promptly.

What are common periodontitis treatment options?

Fortunately, there are plenty of periodontitis treatment options available to patients. Let’s discuss the options, starting with minimally invasive treatments first.

Scaling and Root Planing

This is a non-surgical procedure that a dental hygienist can perform. It involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth and dental roots, followed by smoothing the root surfaces to prevent bacterial reattachment.

Antibiotics

In some cases, dentists may recommend antibiotics as a periodontitis treatment option. Antibiotics can help control or eliminate infections in the gum tissue. 

Laser Therapy

Dental professionals widely consider laser technology as the gold standard of periodontitis treatment. Using concentrated light energy, lasers can remove inflamed gum tissue and bacteria while promoting the regeneration of healthy tissue.

Surgical Procedures

In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Procedures such as flap surgery, bone grafts, and tissue regeneration aim to repair and regenerate damaged tissues.

Why is periodontitis treatment necessary?

There are many reasons to get periodontitis treatment sooner rather than later, including:

Prevention of Tooth Loss

Untreated periodontitis is one of the primary causes of tooth loss in American adults. However, prompt treatment can help prevent the progression of the disease and preserve the natural teeth.

Systemic Health Connection

Research suggests a strong link between periodontal disease and other systemic conditions (such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections). Treating periodontitis may contribute to overall health and well-being.

Improved Oral Health

Periodontitis treatment not only addresses the symptoms but also promotes better oral hygiene habits, helping to prevent the recurrence of gum disease.

Get Periodontitis Treatment in Austin, TX

Understanding the importance of periodontitis treatment is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. Whether through non-surgical or surgical procedures, seeking timely treatment can prevent the progression of the disease, helping to preserve natural teeth. Schedule a periodontal appointment at Austin Laser Dentist here or call (512) 346-4690 for booking now!

Gum disease, or periodontitis, is incredibly common. The prevalence of the condition is alarming for oral health reasons alone, but it is all the more concerning because it can have a dramatic impact on your overall wellness. In fact, gum disease can affect nearly every part of your body, from your teeth to your heart. 

Fortunately, at Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale offers periodontal care using state-of-the-art soft tissue lasers. Although there is no cure for gum disease, effective treatment can keep it under control and minimize the effects to the rest of your body. And, of course, routine care can prevent periodontitis from developing in the first place. 

To learn more about gum disease or to schedule an appointment, contact Austin Laser Dentist today.

Gum Disease and Your Teeth

The most obvious effect of gum disease is the one it has on your teeth. If you suffer from periodontitis, bacterial pockets build up in your gums, causing them to recede. Eventually, your teeth may loosen and come out altogether. In turn, tooth loss can lead to jawbone recession, which, in a vicious cycle, can lead to further tooth loss. 

Periodontitis and Your Cardiovascular Health 

Less observable is the effect that gum disease may have on your heart. Individuals with periodontitis are two to three times more likely to suffer from a heart attack or stroke. 

Scientists caution that the connection between heart and gum disease is not completely understood. For instance, certain factors, like smoking or a poor diet, can increase the risk for both conditions. But other researchers posit that gum disease itself is a risk for heart disease, due either to bacteria traveling through the bloodstream or to chronic inflammation.

Gum Disease and Diabetes

Gum disease and diabetes have a two-way connection. Chronically elevated blood sugar can increase sugar levels in the mouth, which will raise the risk of gum disease. Conversely, gum disease and the resulting inflammation can make it difficult to keep blood sugar under control. 

Periodontitis and Healthy Lungs

Just as bacteria can travel to the heart, they can also travel to the lungs. Plus, you can inhale tiny droplets of saliva that contain oral bacteria. As a result, there is an established connection between gum disease and several respiratory conditions, including COPD, pneumonia, and emphysema.

Gum Disease and Pregnancy

Hormonal changes and a lowered immune response make pregnant women more susceptible to gum disease. Consequently, 60 to 75% of pregnant women have pregnancy gingivitis. Fortunately, gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and can be reversed. If it goes untreated, however, periodontitis may lead to premature delivery and low birth weight.

Periodontitis and COVID-19

Researchers have long known about the links between gum disease and these other conditions. A more recent discovery is the connection between periodontitis and COVID-19. A groundbreaking study in the wake of the global pandemic found that patients with severe gum disease were nearly three times as likely to suffer from serious COVID-19 complications, including death.

Contact Us for Periodontal Care

To learn more about periodontitis or to receive effective, state-of-the-art care, contact Austin Laser Dentist. Book an appointment online or call us at (512) 346-4690.