Whether your teeth are stained from decades of drinking coffee or chipped from all the times you bit down on hard foods and objects, you may look at your smile one day and decide that it needs a refresh. Luckily, cosmetic dentistry can help. From correcting gaps between teeth to whitening your smile, there are a variety of ways that it can benefit your pearly whites. Even so, oral health issues must be treated before you move forward with getting cosmetic dental work. Read on to learn why gum disease therapy is necessary before you have a cosmetic dentist perfect your pearly whites.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the gums that is often the result of poor oral health. It can also be caused by hormonal changes, illnesses like cancer and HIV, medications that lessen saliva production, smoking, and a family history of dental disease. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and is characterized by the gums becoming inflamed and bleeding easily when brushing. If left untreated, it may progress to a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. The infection may also enter the bloodstream and can lead to heart problems or a stroke.
How Gum Disease Can Impact the Look of Your Smile
When gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, the gums may be red and swollen, bleed consistently, and begin to recede. This makes the teeth appear larger than normal since more of the enamel is exposed. Additionally, the inner layer of the gums and bone pull away from the teeth, which causes pockets to form. When these pockets collect debris, they can become infected. Eventually, the teeth may no longer be anchored in place, which can lead to tooth loss.
Gum Disease Treatment Options
Since gum disease can cause tooth loss and a range of serious oral and overall health problems, it’s important to have it treated before you move forward with any cosmetic dental procedures. Scaling and root planing are used to get rid of plaque and bacteria around the gums and tooth roots. Scaling breaks up the buildup around the gums, and root planing reshapes the roots of the teeth, so plaque is less likely to gather on them in the future. Another common treatment for gum disease is to use an antibiotic called Arestin. It can be applied directly to the gums and slowly dissolves, which allows it to reach and kill any bacteria hidden in the small spaces between the teeth and gums.
Though cosmetic dentistry is a great way to correct smile imperfections, it’s important to start with healthy gums and teeth. By having this infection treated promptly, you can avoid further issues and make your way towards a smile you’ll love!
About the Author
If you’re interested in cosmetic dentistry but suffering from gum disease, Chisholm Trail Dental Health is your one-stop-shop for all things oral health. They understand the importance of starting with a healthy mouth and can administer treatments like scaling and root planning or Arestin to get rid of your gum infection. Before you know it, you’ll be on your way to the grin of your dreams! Are you ready to start your smile journey? Visit Chisholm Trail Dental Health’s website or call their office at (512) 244-2796 for more information on gum disease therapy or to set up a consultation.