Gum disease, or “periodontal disease,” is a condition that affects millions of Americans. Patients in the area of Longview, TX who visit Dr. Clint Bruyere are strongly educated on the importance of keeping the smile healthy to avoid the development of this condition. It is essential that patients know there is no cure for gum disease, so avoidance of the infection is the best way to protect the smile.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is an infection in the mouth. It often affects the gum tissues first. It can result in issues such as:

• Persistent bad breath
• Bleeding of the gums while brushing and flossing
• Pockets forming between the gums and the natural teeth

As soon as these symptoms are seen, patients should schedule an appointment as soon as possible with Dr. Clint Bruyere for an evaluation. The earlier the condition is spotted, the easier it can be to treat and reverse the damage. If the condition is left untreated for an extended period of time, patients may begin to develop the later stages of periodontitis which can have negative, permanent effects on the smile.

Treatment for gum disease

The treatment for the condition will vary depending on which stage it has reached and how severe it is. The earlier stages of periodontal disease can be treated with a thorough professional cleaning in the dental office. Antibiotics may be used at any stage to reverse the infection and bring the smile back to health. The later stages of the disease are better suited for a procedure known as scaling and root planing which is more aggressive.

Interested in learning more about periodontal disease?

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease and want to learn more about treatment, now is the time to connect with an experienced dental professional such as Dr. Clint Bruyere. Call his practice at 444 Forest Square, Suite G today by calling (903) 708-6116 to schedule a consultation visit.

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