Your smile is one of your most valuable assets, but its health goes deeper than just your teeth. Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy mouth and play a crucial role in your overall well-being. At St. Mary’s Dental, Dr. Gina McCray and Dr. Kara McCray Demer are dedicated to helping our community in Mechanicsville, Charlotte Hall, and Leonardtown understand the early indicators of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease.
Recognizing the symptoms early is key to preventing serious damage. Prompt action can protect your smile and your health.
Key Warning Signs of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease often starts silently, but there are several signs you can watch for. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to schedule a professional evaluation.
- Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums: Healthy gums should be firm and pink. Inflammation is a primary indicator of a problem.
- Bleeding When Brushing or Flossing: This is never normal. Bleeding is a common sign that your gums are irritated and require attention.
- Persistent Bad Breath (Halitosis): If you find that mints or mouthwash don’t solve bad breath, it could be caused by bacteria trapped below the gumline.
- Gum Recession: Do your teeth appear longer than they used to? This can be a sign that your gums are pulling away from your teeth.
- Plaque and Tartar Buildup: A sticky film (plaque) that hardens into tartar along the gumline is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria.
- Changes in Your Bite: If your teeth feel like they fit together differently when you bite down, it could indicate shifting due to bone loss.
The Mouth-Body Connection: More Than Just Teeth
The health of your gums is directly linked to your overall health. The bacteria and inflammation associated with periodontal disease can enter your bloodstream and contribute to serious systemic conditions. Research has shown connections between gum disease and an increased risk for heart disease, diabetes, complications during pregnancy, and other inflammatory conditions. Protecting your gums is a vital part of taking care of your entire body.
How We Can Help: Periodontal Therapy
If Dr. McCray or Dr. McCray Demer diagnose gum disease, we will create a personalized treatment plan to restore your gum health. Periodontal therapy is designed to halt the progression of the disease and manage it effectively.
Your treatment may include:
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning procedure to remove tartar and plaque from below the gumline and smooth the tooth roots to help gums reattach.
- Locally Delivered Antibiotics: In some cases, we place an antibiotic directly into the gum pocket to eliminate infection-causing bacteria.
- Periodontal Maintenance: Regular, more frequent cleanings are scheduled to keep the disease under control and prevent recurrence.
- Personalized At-Home Care: We will provide specific instructions on how to care for your gums at home to support your professional treatment.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums
Your oral health is too important to leave to chance. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of gum disease or are simply due for a check-up, we are here to help. The team at St. Mary’s Dental provides compassionate, expert care to patients in Mechanicsville, Charlotte Hall, and Leonardtown.
Contact us today to schedule your periodontal evaluation with Dr. Gina McCray or Dr. Kara McCray Demer and protect your smile for a lifetime.
Contact St. Mary’s Dental:
301-884-3248
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
28169 Old Village Rd
Mechanicsville, Maryland
20659
