Gum Disease Treatment

Healthy gums act like anchors, keeping your teeth stable and secure. When gum disease goes untreated, it can cause the tissues and bone around your teeth to weaken, eventually leading to tooth loss.

At Faywest Dental Center, we offer gum disease treatment in Scottsdale, PA. We carefully evaluate your gums during every checkup so we can catch any signs of disease early before it leads to more serious problems.

What Exactly Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease starts quietly, usually with bacteria and plaque that build up along and under your gumline. Over time, this sticky film hardens into tartar that irritates the gums and causes inflammation and infection.

In its earliest stage, called gingivitis, your gums may appear red, puffy, or bleed when you brush. Left untreated, gum disease can progress into periodontitis, where the infection begins to damage the bone and tissues that support your teeth.

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile, and they play a much bigger role in your overall wellness than many people realize. Left untreated, gum disease affects your mouth and overall health. Research has linked untreated gum disease to several serious health conditions, including:

• Heart Disease — Inflammation caused by gum disease can increase your risk of heart problems and stroke.
• Diabetes Complications — Gum infections can make it harder to manage blood sugar levels, worsening diabetic symptoms.
• Respiratory Illness — Bacteria from infected gums can travel to your lungs and contribute to respiratory infections or conditions like pneumonia.
• Pregnancy Concerns — Gum disease has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight.
• Tooth and Bone Loss — Advanced gum disease can damage the bone supporting your teeth, leading to loosened or lost teeth.

Keeping your gums healthy through regular dental checkups, daily brushing and flossing, and professional cleanings means you're investing in your long-term health and quality of life.

Treating Gum Disease in Scottsdale, PA

Treatment depends on the stage of the disease and your specific needs. For early gum inflammation, we focus on improving at-home care, regular cleanings, and antimicrobial rinses. For more advanced cases, we may recommend scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning that removes tartar below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to discourage bacteria from returning.

Our team works gently and carefully to make sure you’re comfortable every step of the way. We’ll also continue to monitor your progress closely, supporting your long-term gum health with a personalized maintenance plan.

Healthy gums start with good daily habits:

• Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Floss once daily to remove plaque between your teeth.
• Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash for an extra layer of protection.

Even with excellent home care, some plaque and tartar buildup can only be removed with professional dental cleanings. That’s why we recommend scheduling a cleaning and exam every six months. Our gentle hygienists have the tools (and the skill!) to keep your gums in great shape.

Certain factors can also make gum disease more likely, even for people with great brushing habits. These include:

• Smoking or tobacco use
• Diabetes or heart disease
• Medications that cause dry mouth
• Weakened immune systems
• Family history of gum disease

If any of these apply to you, please give us a call to schedule your visit. Together, we’ll keep your gums healthy and your smile looking its best!