Achieve Healthy Gums and Optimal Well-being with Periodontal Care

Gum disease affects about 50% of adults in America. While early-stage gum disease is relatively harmless, advanced gum disease can result in gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss. Buena Vida Dental Studio understands that gums are the foundation of your smile. Dr. Carlos L. Benavides Davila, DDS and his team offer top-tier periodontal care in Tucson, Arizona, to help you maintain optimal gum health.

How does gum disease develop?

Gum or periodontal disease is the infection of your gums and surrounding tissues. Although genetics, hormonal imbalances, and other factors can cause its development, dental plaque (oral biofilm) is the primary cause. This invisible bacterial film builds up in your mouth when you fail to brush and floss your teeth properly.

Over time, plaque advances into tartar, which is bad news for your oral health. Bacteria in tartar inflame the gums, causing early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) characterized by:

Swollen or tender gums
Gums that appear redder than usual
Bleeding, especially when flossing and brushing
Persistent bad breath
Sensitivity

Gum disease doesn’t stop at gingivitis. When you fail to treat it properly, it advances and causes gums to pull away (recede) from your teeth, resulting in deep periodontal pockets. These pockets attract more tartar and harmful bacteria, which “eat away” the underlying bone, causing loose teeth that eventually fall out.

Does gum disease affect systemic health?

Many people perceive periodontal disease as purely an oral health problem. However, it can affect your overall well-being. Uncontrolled oral bacteria can travel elsewhere in the body through the bloodstream, leaving a trail of damage. Pathogens that cause gum disease have been linked to diabetes, cardiovascular problems, pre-term births, and other systemic illnesses.

How is gum disease treated?

If you suspect gum disease, it’s best to seek treatment as soon as possible. For mild gum disease, Dr. Benavides can help you reverse it with standard cleanings followed by good oral hygiene. If gum disease doesn’t respond favorably to conservative care, treatment options may include:

Scaling and root planing (SRP): This non-surgical treatment eliminates harmful bacteria and promotes healing. The dentist scales (removes) harmful deposits from the deep periodontal pockets and polishes (planes) the root surfaces to prevent future infections. After this procedure, you may need oral or topical antibiotics to prevent bacterial recolonization.
Soft tissue therapy: Our office uses laser technology to treat gum disease instead of traditional scalpels and sutures. Laser gum therapy is precise, minimally invasive, and results in minimal downtime.

Many patients realize that gum disease treatment in Tucson, Arizona, goes beyond what they had imagined. It preserves their teeth, provides lasting fresh breath, and protects their well-being from numerous systemic illnesses. Treatment is not just about your gums but your overall wellness.

Can I prevent gum disease?

Periodontal disease is treatable, but it’s best to prevent it in the first place. Here are tips to keep your gums healthy:

Brush and floss your teeth diligently
Visit your Tucson dentist routinely for cleanings and check-ups
Reduce the intake of sugary foods
Manage immune-suppressing illnesses like depression and diabetes
Stop tobacco use

Periodontal disease treatment near me in Tucson, Arizona

Do you suspect gum disease? Don’t delay treatment any longer. Call (520) 745-5577 and schedule an appointment with Buena Vida Dental Studio for effective gum disease treatment. Let’s protect your smile at its foundation.

Carlos L. Benavides D, DDS

Dr. Carlos Benavides, a dedicated dentist with over six years of professional experience, is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. Growing up in Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico, and Douglas, Arizona, Dr. Benavides was inspired by his father, who was also a dentist, to pursue a career in dentistry. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from the University of Arizona and his dental degree from Howard University College of Dentistry. As the founder of Buena Vida Dental Studio, Dr. Benavides combines expertise and compassion to ensure every patient receives thorough and conservative dental care they can trust.