You brush, you floss, you smile in the mirror, and everything seems fine. But here’s a little secret: gum disease, also called "periodontal disease," doesn’t always announce itself with obvious signs. Many people walk around with early-stage gum disease and don’t even realize it, until it’s already causing damage.
Our dental office offers gum disease treatment in Centennial, CO. Gum disease is sneaky, but the good news is that early detection and treatment can protect your teeth, gums, and overall health.
Why Can Gum Disease Go Unnoticed?
Unlike cavities, which often cause pain or sensitivity, gum disease can develop quietly. In its early stages, called "gingivitis," you might notice only subtle signs, if any. This is why regular dental checkups are so important.
Some reasons gum disease often goes unnoticed:
- It’s often painless at first.
- Symptoms can be subtle, such as slight bleeding, minor swelling, or mild bad breath.
- People ignore it and think it'll go away on its own.
Red Flags to Watch For
Even if you feel fine, your gums may be trying to tell you something. Look for these subtle signs:
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing — Points to possible gum inflammation
- Swollen or red gums — Indicates inflammation or infection
- Persistent bad breath — Caused by bacteria lurking in gum tissue
- Gum recession — Teeth that look longer as gums pull back
- Loose teeth — A later sign, indicating potential bone loss
Catching gum disease early is key because, once it progresses to periodontitis, it can cause irreversible damage to bone, teeth, and even affect your overall health.
Why Gum Health Matters Beyond Your Mouth
Gum disease can greatly impact your smile and your general health. Research has linked untreated gum disease to conditions like:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes complications
- Respiratory infections
So keeping your gums healthy isn’t just about your smile; it’s about your entire body!
How Dr. Franquemont Can Help
At Dr. Michael Franquemont’s dental office, we specialize in detecting and treating gum disease before it becomes a serious problem. Here’s how we help:
- Comprehensive exams — We carefully evaluate your gums for early signs of disease.
- Professional cleanings — We remove plaque and tartar buildup to help prevent progression.
- Personalized home care guidance — We offer tips on brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene routines that actually work.
- Advanced treatments if needed — From scaling and root planing to periodontal therapy, we address gum disease at any stage.
Prevent Gum Disease with These Simple Habits
Even if you don’t see symptoms, you can take steps to keep your gums healthy:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help fight bacteria that cause gum disease.
- Maintain regular dental visits. We recommend visiting us every six months for checkups and professional cleanings.
- Watch your diet. Sugar and processed foods can feed harmful oral bacteria.
Don’t Wait Until You Notice Symptoms — Schedule Your Periodontal Checkup Today!
Gum disease is sneaky, but it’s also preventable and treatable when caught early.
Call Dr. Michael Franquemont’s dental office in Centennial, CO, today to schedule a thorough evaluation.