Monday - Thursday 7:45AM - 5:30PM
Friday-Sunday Closed
Your Trusted El Paso Gum Disease Specialists
The simple act of brushing and flossing is the best way to prevent gum disease. However, there are times in life when basic daily hygiene practices can fall to the wayside, whether due to aging, illness, grief, lifestyle changes, increasing family responsibilities, stress at work, or frequent travel. The El Paso gum disease specialists at Vista Hills Family Dental in El Paso can help you treat gum disease at any age and any stage. Learn more about the signs of gum disease and how we can help.
Gum Disease can happen at any age
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, refers to inflammation of the gum tissue. The primary cause is plaque buildup. Plaque is a soft, sticky bacterial film that requires twice daily brushing and flossing to remove. Failure to remove the plaque allows small pockets to form between the tooth and the gum line where bacteria can collect.
It is difficult to remove plaque that is hidden below the gum line with regular brushing. Before long, the plaque turns into hardened calculus along and below the gum line. Calculus requires special dental tools to remove as it adheres to the tooth like contact cement. Without proper treatment, the gingivae become inflamed. Advanced periodontal disease can lead to receding gums and, ultimately, the loss of one or more teeth.
How is Gum Disease treated?
Your El Paso Gum Disease Treatment may differ based on the stage and severity of gum disease. The earliest stage, gingivitis, may simply require professional cleaning. Advanced gum disease may necessitate scaling and root planing under local anesthetic.
Periodontal surgery, or grafting, may be needed if the underlying bony structures have been damaged by chronic untreated periodontal disease. Vista Hills’ dentists take a conservative approach and advise surgical intervention only for patients who truly need it.
Watch out for these warning signs of gum disease
Nearly 45% of Americans have some form of gingivitis. If you have any of the following symptoms, it is worth your time having a qualified dentist examine your teeth:
Gum disease is progressive. It can worsen quickly without treatment, leading to serious health, hygiene, and social consequences. If you have any of these gum disease symptoms, please contact us immediately so we can protect your smile.
Depending on the treatment, your El Paso dentist at Vista Hills may prescribe medications and an oral rinse. The gums may be sensitive initially, so it is best to avoid very hot or cold food and drink during the recovery period. Smokers should avoid nicotine products, which will not only help the gums heal quicker, but also lower the risk of other oral health problems.
After winning your fight against periodontal disease, a commitment to routine oral hygiene practices is a must. Twice daily brushing and flossing will need to become part of your morning and nightly routine. The Vista Hills dental team understands that some patients have a difficult time managing their oral hygiene, whether due to age, health conditions, or other limiting factors.
They will provide clear instructions and recommendations to help you understand what it will take to prevent gum disease from recurring. They also offer in-office periodontal maintenance and deep cleanings to stave off future gum disease. Vista Hills Family Dental has all the tools and services to give you the best chances of a healthy smile and gums for life!
The sooner you start treating your gum disease, the better
Gum disease is nothing to be ashamed of. The compassionate dentists at Vista Hills Family Dental offer periodontal treatments and personalized recommendations to help you get the health of your gums back. Call the office at (915) 592-2097 to schedule your appointment today.
Schedule your dental consultation
At Vista Hills Family Dental, the comfort of you and your family is our top priority. Our compassionate and caring service has one goal: to leave you smiling—with the smile you’ve always wanted. The caring staff at Vista Hills Family Dental are experts in helping families achieve the best oral health, most beautiful smiles and most pleasant and comfortable dental experience possible. We offer cosmetic dentistry, restorative care, periodontal (gum) care, preventative care and dental care for infants and children. Schedule your consultation today and let our doctors provide you with the best dental care El Paso has to offer.
Monday - Thursday 7:45AM - 5:30PM
Friday-Sunday Closed
