If you brush your teeth and see blood on your toothbrush, it could be the first warning sign of gingivitis. An early form of gum disease, gingivitis can progress to serious complications if left untreated. According to the American Dental Association, untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which is associated with bone and tooth loss, and potentially systemic issues like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Their data indicates that about 70% of American adults experience some form of gum disease, underscoring the widespread nature of this issue.
More people require laser treatment for gum disease and gingivitis than many people realize. In fact, most people would benefit from laser treatment. What are some signs that you might have gingivitis or gum disease?
How to Know if You’re Dealing With Gingivitis or Gum Disease
Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, often starts with subtle symptoms that are easy to overlook. You might notice your gums appear red or swollen or experience tenderness when brushing or flossing. Bleeding during oral hygiene routines is a common early warning sign. Persistent bad breath or a strange taste in your mouth can also indicate gum issues as bacterial buildup intensifies.
While these signs might seem minor, they are critical indicators that your gum health needs attention. Identifying these symptoms early can prevent progression to more severe stages like periodontitis, which can lead to further complications if left untreated.
If you experience any signs, consult a dental professional for an assessment as soon as possible. They will gauge how serious the issue is and recommend appropriate treatment, which has advanced significantly in recent years.
Where Traditional Treatments Fall Short
Advancements in gum disease treatments are paving the way for a more gentle approach. Traditional treatments have included:
- Scaling and root planing (SRP) is a manual process of deep cleaning above and below the gum line, where dentists use special tools to dig down as far as the pocket to scrape away plaque and tartar and to smooth the roots.
- Antibiotics reduce bacterial presence and restore health to the area.
- Surgery is sometimes required for more severe cases.
While these methods have been in place for a long time and can provide effective results, their downsides include discomfort, extended recovery time, and the potential for more invasive follow-up.
A Gentle, More Effective Approach to Gum Disease Treatment
The Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) is a cutting-edge alternative to traditional treatment methods. Dentists certified in LANAP use a specialized laser to target and remove inflamed gum tissue without affecting healthy tissue. The benefits include:
- Precision and preservation. Treatment is less invasive and more selective, with minimal trauma to the treatment area. No sutures are required.
- Reduced pain. Results yield minimal bleeding and discomfort compared to traditional surgery.
- Faster healing. Patients typically experience a shorter recovery period and can return to normal activities within 1-2 days.
- Comprehensive cleaning. LANAP effectively targets bacteria deep within gum pockets and bone with high success rates, even for more significant periodontal disease.
What You Should Consider Before Choosing Treatment
If you have noticed early symptoms of gum disease like gingivitis, or if you are suffering from advanced gum disease or periodontal disease, you likely struggle with discomfort when eating or aesthetic concerns like receding gums. You might also worry about future health complications that could result from your oral health issues. You may want to know in advance what to expect from a local dentist offering treatment for gum disease.
At Full Heart Dentistry in Rochester, our compassionate team pairs technologically advanced care with a patient-focused approach. With expertise in LANAP, we provide advanced, minimally invasive options to manage and effectively reverse gum disease. Your comfort is our top priority, so we want to dispel any anxiety or fear you have about your treatment and help you get the care you deserve. Don’t delay coming in for an assessment so we can improve your oral health sooner rather than later.
Why Full Heart Dentistry Is Your Go-To in Rochester
Our team at Full Heart Dentistry has been serving patients for more than 24 years. With our focus on high-quality, patient-first care, part of our mission is to educate and guide each patient toward achieving their oral health goals. We prioritize a compassionate and comfort-based approach, and you can experience that through our LANAP laser treatment for gum disease. We want to help you stay comfortable while improving your health and well-being.
We do not want gum disease to compromise your oral health and overall wellness. Schedule an appointment today to experience expert care focused on comfort, precision, and effective results. Let us tailor your treatment plan and start your journey to a healthier, more radiant smile.