Gum Disease: Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment Options | Smile Lounge Dentistry

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common but preventable oral health condition that affects the gums and the bone supporting your teeth. It usually begins with mild inflammation called gingivitis and can progress to periodontitis if left untreated.

At Smile Lounge Dentistry in Milton, we emphasize early detection and gentle, comprehensive care to protect your gums, teeth, and overall health.

What Causes Gum Disease?

The main cause of gum disease is plaque — a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. When plaque isn’t removed through daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar (calculus), irritating the gums and triggering inflammation.

Other risk factors include:

• Poor oral hygiene habits
• Smoking or vaping
• Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause)
• Diabetes or immune disorders
• Genetics and family history
• Certain medications that reduce saliva flow

Understanding these causes helps prevent gum disease before it develops.

Common Symptoms of Gum Disease

Gum disease often begins silently — many people don’t notice early signs until it’s advanced. Look out for:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding while brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
• Gum recession (teeth look longer)
• Loose teeth or shifting bite
• Pain while chewing

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your Milton family dentist for a professional evaluation.

Stages of Gum Disease

1. Gingivitis

This is the earliest stage, marked by gum inflammation and bleeding. The good news? Gingivitis is reversible with proper brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings at Smile Lounge Dentistry Milton.

2. Early Periodontitis

At this point, the infection begins to damage the bone supporting your teeth. You may experience gum sensitivity, bad breath, or minor tooth mobility.

3. Advanced Periodontitis

Without treatment, the supporting bone and gum tissue deteriorate further, potentially leading to tooth loss and systemic health concerns. Prompt dental care can help stop progression.

Why Treating Gum Disease Matters

Gum disease isn’t just about your mouth — it’s linked to your overall well-being. Studies show connections between periodontal disease and:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Respiratory infections
• Pregnancy complications

By maintaining healthy gums, you’re also supporting your whole-body health.

Prevention: How to Keep Your Gums Healthy

Preventing gum disease starts at home and continues with professional care. Follow these steps:

1. Brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
2. Floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth.
3. Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
4. Avoid tobacco and limit sugary snacks or drinks.
5. Schedule regular dental cleanings and checkups at Smile Lounge Dentistry in Milton.
6. Ask about scaling and root planing, if needed, to clean below the gumline.

Consistency is key — small daily habits make a big difference in gum health.

Treatment Options for Gum Disease

At Smile Lounge Dentistry Milton, we tailor gum disease treatment to your individual needs. Depending on severity, we may recommend:

1. Professional Cleaning (Prophylaxis)

Ideal for early-stage gingivitis. Removes plaque and tartar to restore gum health.

2. Scaling and Root Planing

A deep-cleaning procedure that removes bacteria below the gumline and smooths root surfaces to promote healing.

3. Laser Gum Therapy

Minimally invasive treatment that targets infected tissue while preserving healthy gum structure.

4. Antibacterial Therapy

Topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce bacteria and control infection.

5. Surgical Treatment (for Advanced Cases)

In severe cases, gum or bone grafting may be recommended to restore lost tissue and prevent tooth loss.

Each treatment plan is designed for comfort, precision, and lasting results.

Home Care After Gum Disease Treatment

After your periodontal therapy, maintaining oral hygiene at home is essential.

• Brush and floss daily using gentle circular motions.
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash recommended by your dentist.
• Attend regular follow-up visits for monitoring.
• Avoid smoking or hard foods that irritate healing gums.

With consistent care, your gums can regain their natural strength and appearance.

Why Choose Smile Lounge Dentistry Milton

At Smile Lounge Dentistry, we combine advanced dental technology with compassionate care. Our experienced team offers gentle, effective gum disease treatment and prevention for patients of all ages.

Here’s what makes us different:

• Personalized gum health plans
• Modern equipment for precise diagnosis
• Pain-free, gentle cleaning and laser therapy options
• Education to help you maintain oral health at home

We’re proud to be your trusted family dentist in Milton, keeping your gums and teeth healthy for life.

FAQ – Gum Disease Treatment in Milton

1. Can gum disease be reversed?
Yes — in its early stage (gingivitis), gum disease is reversible with proper care and regular dental cleanings.

2. How often should I visit my dentist for gum care?
Every six months is ideal, though patients with gum issues may need more frequent visits for maintenance.

3. Is gum disease treatment painful?
Not at all. With modern techniques and gentle anesthesia, treatments are comfortable and stress-free.

4. What happens if I ignore gum disease?
Untreated gum disease can cause tooth loss, bone damage, and may affect overall health.

5. How can I prevent gum disease at home?
Brush twice daily, floss once a day, eat healthily, and see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

Healthy Gums, Confident Smiles

At Smile Lounge Dentistry Milton, our mission is to help every patient enjoy a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles. Whether you need a routine cleaning or advanced gum therapy, our caring team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Visit Us: 264 Main Street East, Milton, ON, L9T 1P2
Call: +1 905-636-6444
Website: smilelounge.ca

Book your appointment today and discover gentle, effective gum disease treatment that protects your health and smile.