Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. They support your teeth, protect your jawbone, and play a major role in overall well-being. When gum health is compromised, it can create a ripple effect that impacts not only your oral health but also your entire body. Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is one of the most serious threats to dental health. At Implant & Perio Center of Kansas, Dr. Marq J. Sams and his team in Wichita specialize in diagnosing and treating periodontal disease to help patients regain control of their health.
Below, we explain what periodontal disease is, why it is dangerous, and how effective treatment can safeguard your smile and your overall wellness.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that begins in the gum tissue and can progress to affect the ligaments and bone that support your teeth. It is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day. If plaque is not removed through daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings, it hardens into tartar, which cannot be removed by simple brushing.
The disease develops in stages:
- Gingivitis: The earliest and most common stage. Gums may appear red, swollen, and may bleed when brushing or flossing. At this stage, the damage is usually reversible with proper treatment and care.
- Periodontitis: If gingivitis is not treated, the infection can spread deeper into the gum tissues and begin to damage the bone that supports your teeth. Gums may pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that trap more bacteria.
- Advanced Periodontitis: In the most severe cases, the bone and connective tissues are destroyed, leading to loose teeth, shifting bite alignment, and eventual tooth loss.
Why Periodontal Disease Is a Serious Health Risk
Many people believe gum disease is simply a dental issue, but research shows that periodontal health is closely tied to overall health. The bacteria that cause gum infections can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, creating or worsening other conditions.
- Heart Health: Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, stroke, and clogged arteries. Chronic inflammation triggered by oral bacteria can strain the cardiovascular system.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease, and untreated gum infections can make blood sugar harder to manage. Treating periodontal disease often improves diabetic control.
- Respiratory Health: Bacteria from infected gums can be inhaled into the lungs, increasing the risk of respiratory infections such as pneumonia.
- Pregnancy Complications: Expectant mothers with gum disease face a higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight.
- Cognitive Decline: Emerging studies suggest a possible connection between chronic gum disease and conditions like Alzheimer’s disease due to the spread of oral bacteria to the brain.
By seeking timely treatment, patients can lower their risk for these serious health conditions and protect their long-term well-being.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Recognizing the warning signs of gum disease is the first step toward treatment. Symptoms may include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
- Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums that make teeth look longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain when chewing
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
Because gum disease can progress without noticeable pain, regular dental checkups are essential for early detection.
Treatment Options for Periodontal Disease
At Implant & Perio Center of Kansas, Dr. Sams offers a wide range of advanced treatments designed to stop infection, restore gum health, and preserve natural teeth whenever possible. The specific treatment plan depends on the severity of the disease.
- Scaling and Root Planing: This deep-cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots. Smoother roots make it harder for bacteria to reattach, helping gums heal and reattach to the teeth.
- Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, antibiotics may be applied directly to infected areas or prescribed orally to reduce bacterial infection.
- Periodontal Maintenance: After initial treatment, patients often need more frequent professional cleanings, usually every three to four months, to keep gum disease under control.
- Laser Therapy: Advanced laser technology can target and eliminate bacteria with less discomfort and faster healing times compared to traditional methods.
- Surgical Treatments: For advanced cases, surgical procedures may be required. These include flap surgery to reduce pocket depth, bone grafts to regenerate lost bone, and gum grafts to restore gum tissue.
- Dental Implants: If gum disease has already led to tooth loss, dental implants may be an excellent solution. Dr. Sams is highly skilled in implant placement, offering patients a permanent, natural-looking way to restore their smiles.
Why Choose Implant & Perio Center of Kansas
When it comes to gum health, specialized care makes a difference. Implant & Perio Center of Kansas offers:
- Expertise: Dr. Marq J. Sams is a board-certified periodontist with years of experience treating complex cases of gum disease.
- Advanced Technology: From laser treatments to modern imaging, the practice uses current tools for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
- Personalized Care: Every patient receives a treatment plan tailored to individual needs and health goals.
- Comprehensive Services: In addition to periodontal treatment, the practice provides dental implant placement, bone regeneration, and other advanced procedures.
- Convenient Locations: With two offices in Wichita, patients have easy access to high-quality periodontal care close to home.
Protecting Your Gum Health at Home
Professional treatment is essential for addressing gum disease, but daily habits play a major role in prevention and long-term management. Patients can protect their gums by:
- Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Flossing at least once a day to remove plaque between teeth
- Using an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended
- Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and low in added sugars
- Avoiding tobacco, which is one of the biggest risk factors for gum disease
- Scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings
Consistent home care, combined with professional treatment and monitoring, gives patients the best chance of maintaining healthy gums for life.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums
Periodontal disease is a serious condition, but with expert treatment and ongoing care, it is manageable and often reversible in its early stages. Protecting your gum health not only preserves your smile but also reduces risks to your overall health.
If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease such as bleeding gums, gum recession, or persistent bad breath, now is the time to take action. Contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sams. With two Wichita locations, compassionate care, and advanced treatment options, the team is ready to help you achieve healthier gums and a healthier life.