Nearly half of American adults over the age of 30 have gum disease, yet many don’t even realize it. This is because early signs can be so subtle that they’re often ignored or mistaken for something minor. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko is passionate about helping patients identify and treat gum disease in its earliest stages, ensuring healthier smiles and better overall well-being.
Sneaky Signs You Might Have Gum Disease
Bleeding gums, even a small amount when brushing or flossing, is not normal and should not be overlooked. Many people dismiss redness, swelling, or tenderness in their gums as the result of brushing too hard, but these can be early indicators of gum disease. Chronic bad breath or a lingering bad taste in your mouth can also point to bacteria buildup that needs attention.
Receding gums, which make teeth appear longer, are another potential red flag. This condition may hint at underlying issues like tooth instability or bone loss. Worse still are signs like loose teeth or changes in the way your bite feels, as these often signal advanced gum deterioration. The most alarming symptom is pus between your teeth and gums, which confirms that an infection is present and requires immediate care.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Ignoring gum disease doesn’t just put your oral health at risk. Numerous studies have linked untreated gum disease to serious health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s disease. The inflammation caused by gum infections can affect your entire body, highlighting the critical connection between oral health and overall well-being.
Bone loss in the jaw, another consequence of untreated gum disease, can lead to tooth loss and changes in facial structure. Early intervention is key to preventing these far-reaching effects.
What We Can Do About It
At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Lesko and her team provide personalized, compassionate care to tackle gum disease head-on. Their tailored treatment plans include three levels of periodontal therapy, ensuring that your care matches your specific needs. They’ve moved beyond the standard hygiene approach, focusing on targeted periodontal care that aims to restore gum health.
Root planing, a procedure designed to clean deeply and smooth out your tooth roots, is one of the advanced services offered to help prevent future plaque buildup and disease progression. Dr. Lesko’s approach prioritizes patient comfort and education, ensuring you feel supported and informed throughout your treatment.
High-Tech Help with OralDNA®
For a more precise and effective approach, Dr. Lesko’s practice employs OralDNA® testing. This simple swish-and-spit test helps identify the exact bacteria contributing to gum disease. The MyPerioPath® test results allow for highly personalized treatment plans that target the root cause of your gum issues.
This cutting-edge technology not only boosts treatment precision but also reduces the risk of future complications, contributing to improved oral and overall health. With OralDNA®, patients experience care tailored to their unique needs and gain a clearer understanding of their gum health.
Smile with Confidence
The good news is that early gum disease is reversible with timely intervention. Subtle signs like bleeding or tenderness deserve attention, and Dr. Lesko’s expert care at The Fort Collins Dentist can help you restore and protect your smile.
Don’t wait until symptoms worsen. If you’re in Fort Collins, schedule a consultation today and take a proactive step toward healthier gums and a brighter smile.
Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:
970-221-5115
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526
