Create A Healthy Smile Foundation With Dr. Richard Robinette
A bright, healthy smile depends on strong, disease-free gums. Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a common and serious infection that damages the soft and hard structures supporting your teeth. If left unchecked, it can lead to inflamed gums, irreversible bone loss, and eventual tooth loss. Dr. Richard Robinette at Dentistry by Design in Spring Hill, TN, has advanced skills and technology to provide specialized treatment for gum disease. No matter what stage your gum disease is in, they can help you regain a pain-free, vibrant smile.
Our skilled and compassionate dental team at Dentistry by Design offers the highly effective, minimally invasive treatments you need to keep infection under control and maintain proper oral health for years to come.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to painful gum inflammation, persistent bad breath, and even tooth loss.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque — a sticky film containing bacteria — on your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed by thorough daily brushing and flossing, the bacteria accumulate and irritate your gums. This irritation causes redness, swelling, and bleeding when you brush.
Plaque can build up and harden into tartar, a hard substance that breaks down gum fibers and bone, creating pockets around the teeth where more bacteria can grow. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen, and the bacteria and inflammation spread below the gum line, affecting the ligaments and bone that hold the teeth in place.
Gum Disease Treatment Services at Dentistry by Design
Here are some of the most effective professional treatment options provided by the gum care team at Dentistry by Design:
- Deep Cleaning: Scaling and root planing removes built-up plaque and tartar above and below the gumline.
- LANAP Laser Therapy: Laser light destroys harmful bacteria to heal inflamed gums. Laser gum treatment enhances the effectiveness of scaling and root planing.
- Periodontal Maintenance: Ongoing, professional dental cleanings and monitoring are necessary to manage gum disease and prevent recurrence.
- Gum Grafts: Tissue grafted from the roof of the mouth replaces lost gum tissue, covering exposed roots to prevent sensitivity and improve gum health.
How To Prevent Gum Disease At Home
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for preventing gum disease and promoting oral health. Here are Dr. Robinette’s tips for effective at-home practices to keep your gums healthy:
- Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss Daily: Clean between teeth and along the gumline.
- Use Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Rinse to reduce harmful bacteria.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stimulate saliva.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Limit Smoking and Alcohol: Both can increase gum disease risk.
- Manage Stress: Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing.
- Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Promotes saliva production for oral health.
Visit Dr. Robinette Regularly: Schedule check-ups and cleanings at Dentistry by Design.
