With today’s healthcare system, it’s common for patients who are suffering from (what they perceive to be) minor symptoms to put off going to the doctor. Millions of Americans don’t have dental insurance, and even those that do will delay scheduling an appointment due to financial insecurity. Unfortunately, once gum disease progresses past gingivitis, it is one of those things that cannot be resolved without professional treatment.

You should never have to fear going to our dentist or worry about how you’re going to pay for necessary care. The team at Lumi Family Dentistry is dedicated to providing periodontal treatment through accessible payment options. We accept several PPO insurance plans, and we will work with you through flexible financing to make sure that you receive the treatment you need.

Gingivitis Can Be Reversed at Home

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, and it is the only one that can be completely reversed. The symptoms of gingivitis include:

• Red, swollen, puffy gums
• Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing
• Gums that are tender to the touch
• Halitosis (bad breath)

Generally, at this stage, the gums have not yet permanently receded. The inflammation can be treated with diligent oral hygiene, and the damage reversed; however, visiting your dentist for a dental cleaning and exam can help you to make sure that the infection isn’t worse than you thought. A dental cleaning will get rid of tartar and help you regain control of bacteria in your mouth.

Periodontal Disease Can Only Be Managed, Not Reversed

Gingivitis is considered separate from gum disease in many ways. It is the precursor to more severe symptoms. When it isn’t treated, the symptoms worsen, and gum inflammation can lead to long-term, permanent health problems.

Symptoms of gum disease may include:

• Red or purple, swollen gums
• Shiny gums that are tender to the touch
• Persistent bad breath
• Toothaches
• Loose teeth
• Receding gums
• Tooth loss

At this point, the gums have begun to recede and bacterial colonies are well-established in the mouth. Gums cannot regrow, so any damage is permanent (unless you get gum grafting treatment in the future). The best way to treat gum disease that has progressed past gingivitis is with regular scaling and root planing (SRP) therapy. 

SRP is a more thorough dental cleaning (often combined with antibiotics) that aims to heal periodontal pockets and scrape away large amounts of tartar. These sometimes need to be conducted more frequently, as bacteria can bounce back more easily once it has taken over the mouth. Plus, exposed teeth due to gum recession are at a higher risk of decay.

Get Treatment for Periodontal Disease at Lumi Family Dentistry in Sachse, TX

If you’re experiencing the symptoms of gingivitis, don’t wait to get help. We can help you make sure that your bleeding gums don’t progress into a chronic condition. If you’re already suffering from gum disease, we can help you manage the symptoms and finally feel relief. Schedule your appointment with our Sachse dentist by calling (469)777-4955 today. You can also book online with our convenient scheduling feature.