Gum care
Taking care of your gum health
Gum health plays an essential role in the balance of your mouth.
Often subtle at first, gum disease can progress gradually and affect the structures that support your teeth. At Boca Dental Clinic, we pay close attention to preventing, detecting and treating these conditions.
The right follow-up care helps preserve not only your gums, but also the long-term stability of your teeth.
Understanding gum disease
Periodontics is the branch of dentistry focused on the tissues that support the teeth, known as the periodontium.
These tissues include:
- The gum that covers the roots;
- The bone in which the roots are anchored;
- The ligament that connects the root to the bone.
A large share of the population is expected to develop some form of gum disease over their lifetime. These conditions are common, but can be managed effectively when caught early.
Gingivitis vs. periodontitis: what’s the difference?
Gum disease generally develops in two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, often caused by a build-up of bacterial plaque.
It can show up as:
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding while brushing
- Sensitivity to touch
Gingivitis is reversible when treated promptly and oral hygiene is improved.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a more advanced form of the disease.
It occurs when the inflammation spreads to deeper structures, including the bone. Left untreated, it can lead to a loss of support for the teeth.
It may show up as:
- Loosening of the teeth
- Formation of periodontal pockets
- Tooth mobility
- Gum recession
- Persistent bad breath
Periodontitis requires more in-depth care to stabilize the condition.
Signs to watch for
Certain signs can point to a gum problem:
- Frequent bleeding
- Sensitive or sore gums
- Redness or swelling
- Persistent bad breath
- A feeling that teeth look longer (recession)
If you notice these signs, it’s recommended that you come in for an assessment.
Treatment tailored to your condition
Gum treatment depends on the stage of the disease.
In milder cases, a professional cleaning and hygiene recommendations may be enough. When the condition is more advanced, specific care may be needed to deep-clean the affected areas.
Treatment may include:
- Deep cleaning of the gums
- Regular, adjusted follow-up
- Personalized hygiene recommendations
- Monitoring of progress
Every treatment plan is tailored to your situation, with clear explanations at every step.
Preventing gum disease
Prevention is essential to maintaining healthy gums.
Certain habits can make a real difference:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene
- Flossing regularly
- Coming in for exams and cleanings
- Following your dentist’s recommendations
Regular follow-up allows problems to be addressed quickly, limiting how far they progress.
A gentle, reassuring approach
Gum care can sometimes cause concern.
That’s why we favour a gradual approach, focused on comfort and understanding. Every step is explained, and we adapt to your comfort level.
Our goal is to guide you through a process that’s simple, accessible and built to last.
Make an appointment
Regular check-ups are key to good oral health.