Would you like to improve the way your teeth look? Millions of people are interested in transforming their smile via cosmetic dentistry. However, many of those individuals must take an important preliminary step before they can embark on their cosmetic journey: gum disease therapy in Enfield. In this article, we will discuss what gum disease is, how it can affect your smile’s aesthetics, and why treating it is so vital.
What Is Gum Disease?
Simply put, gum disease is an infection of the gum tissue. When bacteria sneak beneath the gumline, they begin to multiply and cause more and more damage. Gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, presents subtle symptoms and may go unnoticed for a time. However, if it progresses into the second stage of gum disease, periodontitis, serious consequences may result.
Here are just a few ways in which untreated gum disease might affect your mouth’s health and appearance:
- The gums may become red and swollen.
- The gum tissue may recede, exposing the tooth roots.
- Your may experience persistent bad breath and/or a foul taste in your mouth.
- Because gum disease attacks both the gums and the underlying bone, the teeth may become loose and eventually fall out.
Gum Disease and Cosmetic Treatment
Clearly, the potential aesthetic consequences of gum disease should make treating it a priority for image-conscious individuals. However, there are additional important reasons why you must get it addressed before you commit to cosmetic dental treatments. Some types of cosmetic dentistry, such as porcelain veneers, make gum disease more challenging to treat. Plus, if your gums are sore and tender because they are unhealthy, you may find that it is uncomfortable for you to undergo any type of cosmetic procedure.
Treating Gum Disease
If your cosmetic dentist notices any signs of gum disease when you visit them for your consultation, they will design a treatment plan to tackle the problem and prepare your mouth for future cosmetic treatment. In most cases, treatment for gum disease is a procedure known as scaling and root planing. During this deep cleaning of the mouth, your dentist removes bacteria, plaque, and tartar from the teeth — both above and below the gumline. Then, they smooth out the roots of the teeth to prevent bacteria from clinging to them. When your gums are fully recovered and there are no remaining signs of gum disease, you may be a candidate for cosmetic procedures.
Gum disease can have serious consequences for your mouth’s appearance and health. Treating it may be a vital step on your journey to achieving your ideal smile!
Meet Our Practice
Drs. Venu Chimmiri and Elias Deros are the two general dentists in our practice. They have decades of combined experience and offer a full range of services, including both cosmetic treatments and gum disease therapy. They strive to help each patient love the way mouth looks and feels. If you would like to speak with them about how you can improve your oral health or enhance your teeth’s appearance, contact our team at 860-749-6088.