New Patients (202) 851-7554

Current Patients (202) 659-1227

1712 I Street N.W. Suite 710 Washington, DC 20006

Cosmetic Concerns with Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gum tissue that causes irritation in the gums. This condition does not go away on its own and will require intervention from a dental professional to eradicate.

Major oral health problems can stem from periodontal disease, but it can disrupt the appearance of a patient’s smile as well when the disease progresses. Dr. Justin Deckard, a dentist located in Washington, DC, describes three cosmetic concerns that can develop in patients with gum disease.

gum disease treatment Washington DC

Swollen Gums

Early signs of gum disease include soreness, swelling, and bleeding in the gums. This initial stage of periodontal disease is referred to as gingivitis. Many patients balk at the appearance of red and swollen gums that can detract from the look of their smile.

A dentist can treat this early form of gum disease by thoroughly cleaning the patient’s teeth and gums. They will scrape plaque, tartar, and bacterial build-up from difficult-to-reach spots in the mouth, including deep in the gum pocket, to remove the infection. If the disease persists after this cleaning, the dentist may recommend more targeted periodontal therapy.

Teeth Spacing Issues

If periodontal disease progress, the gum tissue becomes damaged and begins to recede. This will expose more of the surface of your tooth, which can alter the look of your smile. It can create the appearance of black triangles, or gaps between your teeth where gum tissue once was.

Teeth may also shift out of place, becoming crooked or otherwise misaligned, if gum tissue weakens. Your dentist can help you realign your smile and fill gaps in your teeth with cosmetic dental solutions once the periodontal disease is treated. Dental bonding can fill black triangle spaces, and Invisalign can realign crooked or overlapping teeth.

Missing Teeth

Advanced gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults. If periodontal disease progresses, it can reach the root of the tooth, causing enough damage for the tooth to fall out of its socket.

Missing teeth create large gaps in a patient’s smile that can lower their confidence in their appearance. Tooth replacement options, like dental implants, are available at your dentist’s office. But they can be invasive and expensive.

You can prevent severe and irreversible dental damage from gum disease by prioritizing your gum health. Good oral hygiene habits, including brushing teeth twice each day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for routine cleanings, can lower your risk of contracting gum disease. Ask your dentist if an antibacterial mouthwash can help you boost your gum health too.

Treat Bleeding Gums and Other Dental Issues in Washington, DC

DC Precision Dentistry offers treatment for bleeding gums and other dental concerns in patients in Washington, DC. Dr. Deckard specializes in implant, restorative, general, and cosmetic dentistry, including professional teeth whitening services, for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with our practice, reach our office by phone at 202.851.7554 or contact our staff online.