Are You Dealing with Receding Gums?

Find out what this means and why you should turn to us for help.

Have you noticed that your gums have started to pull away from your teeth or that your teeth have suddenly become longer? This isn't angum recession optical illusion but a warning sign that bears visiting our Athens, GA, periodontist Dr. F. Neal Pylant. While there are several things that can cause receding gums, the most common and serious issue is periodontal disease, or gum disease. There are ways for us to help you manage your symptoms and improve the health of your gums.

Why does gum disease require treatment?
Gum disease isn't a problem that will go away on its own. In fact, it's a progressive condition that will only wreak more havoc on your teeth and gums if you ignore it. This is why it's so important to visit a dentist every six months for routine checkups. After all, many people have gum disease but don't even know it. If gum disease isn't treated, not only will it affect the health of your gums, it can also cause tooth loss. Therefore, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important that you give us a call as soon as possible for an evaluation:
•    Receding gums
•    Red, puffy gums
•    Gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing
•    Gums that are sore or tender to the touch
•    Loose teeth
•    Chronic bad breath

How can a periodontist help me?
It's important to get rid of the bacteria responsible for causing gum disease. The most common treatment option for gum disease is scaling and root planing.

Simply put, scaling and root planing is a professional deep cleaning in which our periodontist will use special tools to remove tartar buildup both above and below the gum line. We will also smooth down any rough areas on the roots of the teeth where bacteria could easily get trapped. This cleaning is more extensive than the routine dental cleanings you get every six months from your dentist.

Of course, we may also recommend certain lifestyle changes or certain behaviors to improve the health of your gums. For example, if you are smoker it is strongly advised that you quit smoking right away.

If you have noticed any changes in the health of your gums, it's important that you call our Athens, GA, dental office today to schedule an evaluation with our periodontal team. The sooner we can catch gum disease, the easier it is to treat.

Contact Us

F. Neal Pylant, D.M.D., P.C.

Scott Lowry, D.M.D.

706-543-0026

375 Hawthorne Lane Athens, GA 30606-2153