Make your gums a priority: Protecting your smile by preventing gum disease
The teeth may seem to be the “stars” of the show in the dental world. However, the gums play an essential “supporting role.” Due to the importance of these gingival tissues, Wes Park Family Dentistry prioritizes protecting the health of the gums from damage. Notably, our team in Perry, Georgia, strives to stay ahead of gum disease.
This destructive condition is highly preventable. Even after it has developed, we can intervene to reverse its effects—as long as this progressive condition is caught and addressed early in the disease process. Once bone is lost due to periodontal disease, treatment is essential to regenerate the tissues surrounding, supporting, and protecting the teeth and providing structure to the face and jaws.
How can I keep my gums healthy?
Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque, a sticky bacterial film that constantly forms on teeth. Since bacteria and the starches and sugars in food promote the development of plaque, it is important to brush and floss consistently to remove lingering food particles. It is also essential to maintain regular professional cleanings and check-ups at our office. Once the plaque hardens into tartar, it can only be removed with special tools and techniques courtesy of professionals like our dental hygienists.
How do I know if my gums are healthy?
During regular check-ups, Dr. Bryce Westmoreland will also conduct a thorough exam. Dr. Westmoreland evaluates the condition of your gums. Generally, healthy gums are pinkish-red (not too red), firm, and not painful. They do not bleed when you touch them or brush and floss at the gumline.
That said, many oral problems, including gum disease, are insidious. Only Dr. Westmoreland can confirm that your gums are truly healthy. Early-stage gum disease or gingivitis is often asymptomatic, or the signs may be so subtle that they are easy to ignore. Our team applies considerable expertise and technologies to make an accurate and early diagnosis, which then informs prompt and effective treatment.
What treatments are available at Wes Park Family Dentistry?
Well, the recommended treatment very much depends on the severity of your gum disease. In its earliest stage, inflammation may be effectively resolved with modifications to hygiene or the introduction of prescription or medical products to fight harmful bacteria. Without prompt treatment, gum disease can progress to its advanced form, periodontitis, characterized by infection and a breakdown of the soft and hard tissues.
To prevent complications such as tooth loss, procedures such as deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and periodontal surgery may be needed, with or without the assistance of a special soft tissue laser. Generally, SRP and other non-surgical interventions halt earlier forms of the disease to prevent deterioration of the gums and bone. Surgical interventions are largely advised to heal and regenerate deteriorated or lost tissues.
Maintaining routine hygiene appointments at our office in Perry, GA, can prevent treatment of any kind. Call (478) 488-3561 to start the process of giving your gums the care they deserve today.
Bryce Westmoreland, DMD
Dr. Bryce Westmoreland earned his BSA in Biological Science with Honors from the University of Georgia and completed his DMD at the Dental College of Georgia, where he also served as Chief Resident during his General Practice Residency. He specializes in implant placement surgeries and restorations and has furthered his expertise through the AAID MAXI course. He and his team are known for their friendly, gentle, and empathetic care, creating a welcoming atmosphere where patients receive the highest quality treatments.
He is a member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.