Keeping the teeth and gums healthy require patients to be prudent about caring for their smile. This includes knowing the early signs of conditions that may negatively and permanently affect the teeth and gums such as periodontal disease. Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease affects patients of all ages and can result in the loss of gums, bone, and teeth. With information on the early signs of gum disease and proactive care from an experienced dentist, many patients can bring their smile back to health. At Galleria Dental Aesthetics, Dr. Chong Lee and his team of professionals in McLean, VA provide evaluations, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease.
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Patients interested in maintaining a healthy smile may be unaware of the early signs and symptoms that gum disease may be present. Patients should look for:
- Persistent bad breath
- Swollen and irritated gum tissue
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing the teeth
- Gum recession
- Loose or lost teeth
If a patient has been diagnosed with gum disease, they will want to seek treatment immediately to reverse any of the damage that has already occurred. Treatment may include a combination of therapies at Galleria Dental Aesthetics, including thorough cleaning with scaling and root planing, gum recontouring or grafting, and tooth replacement.
How can I decrease my chances of developing gum disease?
Periodontal disease is 100% preventable. By being proactive about oral health and wellness, many patients can keep the problem from developing in the first place. To reduce the risk of gum disease, patients should:
- Brush and floss after every meal
- Maintain a healthy, nutritious diet
- Eliminate or reduce smoking or tobacco use
- Choose the right toothpaste
- Call the dentist when changes or problems arise
- Visit the dentist every six months for a cleaning and evaluation
Enjoy a smile free from periodontal disease!
If you live in the McLean, VA area and want to work with our team of professionals at Galleria Dental Aesthetics to bring your smile back to health, call us at (703) 448-1020 to request an appointment. We are open for new and returning patients at our facility, located at 1600 Tysons Boulevard, Suite #120.