Brush and floss daily.
Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day removes plaque buildup and prevents bacteria from settling along the gum line.
Gum Disease in Arlington, VA
Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong smile, but gum disease can put both your oral health and overall well-being at risk. Left untreated, it can lead to painful symptoms, tooth loss, and even impact your general health.
At Cusumano and Stuver, we offer expert gum disease treatment in Arlington, VA, to help restore and protect your smile—so you can keep your teeth and gums healthy for years to come.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, doesn’t just happen overnight—it develops over time due to a mix of daily habits and underlying health factors. The good news? Many of these causes are preventable with the right care.
One of the biggest culprits is plaque and tartar buildup. When bacteria in your mouth mix with food particles, they form a sticky film called plaque. If it’s not brushed and flossed away, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by your dentist. Tartar creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to gum inflammation and infection.
Poor oral hygiene habits also play a major role. Skipping brushing and flossing—or not doing them thoroughly enough—allows bacteria to linger, attacking your gums and causing them to pull away from your teeth. Over time, this can lead to more serious issues like gum recession and even tooth loss.
Smoking and chewing tobacco use make things even worse. Tobacco weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections, including gum disease. It also restricts blood flow to your gums, slowing down the healing process if an infection does take hold.
Lastly, underlying health conditions like diabetes can increase your risk. When blood sugar levels are high, bacteria have an easier time growing in your mouth. Plus, diabetes can slow healing and reduce your body’s ability to fight infections, making gum disease more severe and harder to control.
If You Have These Symptoms, Call Us
Gum disease often starts with mild symptoms that can be easy to ignore, but catching it early can prevent serious dental issues down the road. If you’re experiencing any of the following signs, it’s time to take action.
How We Treat Gum Disease at Cusumano and Stuver
At Cusumano and Stuver, we know that no two cases of gum disease are the same. That’s why we take a personalized approach to treatment, using the latest techniques to restore your gum health and protect your smile.
1
Professional Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
This deep-cleaning periodontal disease treatment targets bacteria hiding under the gum line. During the scaling process, we carefully remove hardened tartar from your teeth and roots. Then, with root planing, we smooth the tooth surfaces to help your gums reattach and prevent bacteria from settling back in.
2
Antibiotic Therapy for Gum Disease
In some cases, gum disease leads to deep pockets between your gums and teeth, creating the perfect space for bacteria to thrive. To combat these stubborn infections, we use targeted antibiotic therapy.
3
Surgical Options for Advanced Gum Disease
If gum disease has progressed to an advanced stage, more intensive treatment may be necessary to restore your oral health.
- Pocket Reduction Surgery: When gum pockets become too deep, they trap bacteria and make it nearly impossible to clean properly. This procedure gently reduces pocket depth, allowing for easier at-home care and a lower risk of reinfection.
- Gum Grafting for Receding Gums: If gum disease has caused your gums to pull away from your teeth, gum grafting can help restore lost healthy gum tissue. This procedure covers exposed roots, reducing sensitivity and protecting your teeth from further damage.
Preventing Gum Disease—Tips for a Healthier Smile
Maintaining healthy gums doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple daily habits, you can protect your smile and prevent gum disease from coming back.
Stop Gum Disease from Advancing
Gum disease won’t go away on its own, but the right periodontal treatment can stop it in its tracks. Whether you’re noticing early signs or dealing with advanced symptoms, Cusumano and Stuver are here to help. With expert care and personalized treatment plans, we can restore your gum health and protect your smile for years to come.
Schedule treatment for gum disease at our Arlington, VA, office, and let’s get your gums back on track!
