Gum disease doesn’t have to take over your smile. At Blaisdell Family Dentistry, Dr. Lynn Blaisdell and Dr. Craig Blaisdell prioritize early detection and personalized treatment to stop gum disease in its tracks before it can cause long-term dental damage. The best way to treat periodontal disease is to prevent it altogether, but if we detect signs during a routine exam, we begin immediate care to protect your teeth and gums.
How Gum Disease Starts
Gum disease begins with plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gum line. Over time, this allows bacteria to thrive and cause an infection in the gums. As your body tries to fight the infection, the gums swell, become irritated, and start to pull away from the teeth. These pockets make it even harder to keep the area clean, allowing the disease to spread deeper into the tissues and bone. If left untreated, it can lead to serious damage—eventually causing tooth loss and jawbone deterioration.
Understanding the Stages of Periodontal Disease
In its earliest stage, gum disease is known as gingivitis. This stage is often easy to miss, as symptoms can be mild or even nonexistent. You might notice red or tender gums, occasional bleeding during brushing or flossing, or persistent bad breath. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with deep cleanings and improved oral hygiene.
If gingivitis isn’t treated, it progresses to periodontitis. At this point, the gums begin to recede, and pockets deepen between the teeth and gums. Bacteria invade these spaces, leading to infection and inflammation. This stage brings more serious symptoms, like shifting teeth, persistent bad breath, and eventual bone loss.
Advanced gum disease leads to even more serious consequences. Pus may develop around the gums, teeth can become loose or fall out, and the damage to bone and tissue may be permanent. The longer gum disease goes untreated, the more difficult it becomes to reverse the effects.
Gum Disease and Whole-Body Health
At Blaisdell Family Dentistry, we take your entire health into account when treating gum disease. Research has shown links between gum disease and serious systemic conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even pregnancy complications. The inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease don’t stay confined to your mouth—they can travel through your bloodstream and affect your overall health.
Personalized Care and Early Treatment
Early intervention is the key to preventing long-term dental damage. Our team uses proven techniques like deep scaling and root planing to remove bacteria from beneath the gums and smooth root surfaces. In more advanced cases, we can perform in-office periodontal procedures to help restore gum health. Regular exams and cleanings remain the best way to stay ahead of potential issues.
Don’t wait until gum disease becomes a major problem. If you’re noticing symptoms—or if it’s just time for your next checkup—contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment. We’re proud to provide comprehensive gum disease treatment and prevention to patients in Boise, Meridian, and the surrounding communities. Let’s protect your smile together.
Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:
208-377-9696
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709
