Periodontal Care for a Healthy Smile
Periodontal disease is one of the most common oral health conditions affecting adults, but with the right care, it is also highly treatable. At Pristine Smiles, Dr. Priscila Quito provides gentle and effective periodontal care to help you protect your gums, preserve your teeth, and maintain a strong foundation for long-term oral health.
Why Gum Health is so Important
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults over 35, more so than cavities. In fact, three out of four adults will experience some form of periodontal disease in their lifetime. That is why maintaining healthy gums through daily care and regular dental visits is important.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
The primary cause of gum disease is plaque, a colorless, sticky film that constantly forms on your teeth at the gum line. If not removed with daily brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into calculus (tartar), a rough deposit that irritates the gums and cannot be removed without professional cleaning.
Other Risk Factors Include
Smoking
Diabetes
Stress
Teeth grinding or clenching
Certain medications
Poor nutrition
Understanding Periodontal Disease
When plaque is not removed, the bacteria it contains produce toxins that irritate and inflame the gums. Early symptoms may include redness, swelling, and bleeding. Over time, untreated inflammation can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that trap more bacteria and debris.
As the disease progresses, the bone and tissue supporting the teeth begin to deteriorate. Without intervention, this can ultimately lead to tooth loss.
How Can You Prevent or Manage Gum Disease?
The best approach to periodontal health combines daily home care with regular professional visits.
Daily Prevention Tips
Brush thoroughly twice a day
Floss once a day to clean below the gumline
Avoid smoking or vaping
Maintain a healthy diet to support your immune system
Manage chronic health conditions, such as diabetes
Why Is Professional Care Essential?
Some patients are more susceptible to gum disease even with excellent home care. Regular dental checkups and cleanings allow us to detect early signs of gum disease and provide necessary treatment to prevent progression.
At Pristine Smiles, we offer advanced periodontal therapies designed to stop infection, reduce inflammation, and restore gum health.
Protect Your Gum Health Today
Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong, lasting smile. If you’re noticing signs of inflammation or want to prevent gum disease before it starts, we’re here to help.
Contact Pristine Smiles today to schedule your periodontal evaluation and keep your smile strong for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
A lot of patients have questions about gum health and periodontal treatment, so we’ve gathered helpful answers to some of the most common concerns.
Can Gum Disease Be Reversed?
Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can often be reversed with professional cleanings and improved home care. However, more advanced stages require ongoing management to prevent further damage.
How Do I Know If I Need Periodontal Treatment?
Common signs include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, or sensitivity when brushing. A periodontal evaluation can determine the stage of disease and the best treatment approach.
Are Periodontal Treatments Painful?
Most treatments are comfortable thanks to modern techniques and local anesthesia. Any post-treatment tenderness is typically mild and temporary.
Can Gum Disease Affect My Overall Health?
Yes. Research shows links between gum disease and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and inflammation. Treating periodontal disease supports overall wellness.
How Often Should I Have Periodontal Maintenance Visits?
Patients with periodontal disease typically need cleanings every 3–4 months to keep gum health stable and prevent recurrence. Your personalized plan will depend on your specific needs.