By now you are well aware that healthy Gums don’t happen by accident. In addition, your gums are just as valuable as healthy teeth for a confident smile. Indeed, your gums perform a vital function as they surround and support your pearly whites.

Unfortunately, Gum Disease, or periodontal disease, is one of the biggest factors in tooth loss for adults. Because gum disease itself can be painless, unless you are maintaining routine dental visits, you may not even be aware that you have it.  Signs to look for include swollen or red, tender gums, bleeding gums, loose teeth, persistent bad breath and receding gums.

The main factor behind gum disease is plaque–a sticky, bacterial film that forms every day on your teeth. You can remove plaque through diligent daily brushing and flossing to keep it from hardening. Once plaque hardens, you will need to have it professionally removed by Dr. Arpan Patel.

Halting gum disease is as simple as detecting it early when it is still reversible. This is why routine dental visits are so important. Treatment at this stage includes stepping up your oral hygiene routine–brushing at least twice each day and flossing at least once–followed by a professional dental cleaning.

For advanced gum disease, and depending on the severity of the condition, Dr. Arpan Patel may recommend additional professional dental cleanings, improved at-home oral hygiene, antibiotic treatment, scaling and root planing (deep cleanings), or gum surgery.

If you are concerned about your gums, please call (215) 750-2222 today. At Alpha Dental Excellence in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, Dr. Arpan Patel and our team are ready to help you maintain your healthy, beautiful smile!