Houston Periodontics & Gum Disease

There are two major types of Gum Disease that you may be able to contract if you do not appropriately tend to the care of your teeth and gums. They are:

Gingivitis is the starting point of gum disease and is hard to be detected most times. However, this stage of the disease can be helped and reversed.

Periodontitis is the second stage of gum disease if gingivitis is left untreated. This may lead to loss of teeth and bone loss.

There are many signs of gum disease including:

• Chronic Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth


• Tooth loss


• Abscessed teeth


• Red, enlarged gums with potential bleeding


• Sensitivity of teeth caused by the gums diminishing


• Movement of teeth


• Change in your bite


• Loose Teeth


• Fit of dentures have changed


• Pus between teeth or gums when pressed upon

If you happen to contract a gum disease, you may be treated depending on the type and severity of the disease. Some treatment options include medications like chlorhexidine gluconate, which is a mouth rinse your hygienist may suggest to kill the bacteria collecting in your mouth, along with frequent checkups. Another option includes extracting the plaque or if the disease is severe enough, surgery may be required. If surgery is taken as an option, the surgeon may also be able to replace bone that may have been lost in the advanced stages of the disease.

Although brushing twice daily is important to the oral health of your teeth, it is often times not enough to prevent gum disease. It is very important for you to floss your teeth at least once a day. If plaque is not removed immediately, it will form into a hardened substance called tartar. The only way to remove tartar build up is to have your teeth professionally cleaned. If you are concerned you may have gum disease, contact Lakewood Emergency Dentist at 281-320-400.