Your oral health is more than just taking care of your teeth. Your gums provide the foundation for your smile, and they need to receive the appropriate care, too. If plaque and tartar build up in your gums, it can break the connections that anchor your teeth to your gums, leaving large pockets for bacteria to accumulate in. These pockets are where gum disease develops, so it is important to take proper care of your gums before this problem occurs. This often includes flossing and using a mouth rinse to make sure all debris is removed from your teeth. However, our dentists may recommend additional treatment if you suffer from any of the following:
- Gums that bleed during and after tooth brushing
- Red and swollen gums
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
In these situations, Dr. Stark and Dr. Norden will need to deep clean your gums to completely remove any bacteria. This process involves scaling and root planing, which is typically done during your examination at Derby Family Dentistry. Because gum disease is a permanent condition, it is important to receive regular treatments to keep your mouth healthy. We may also recommend ARESTIN®, an antibiotic treatment for gum disease.
If you want to learn more about gum disease in Derby, Kansas, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our dentists by calling or visiting our office today.