Ever notice your gums bleeding when you brush or floss? You’re not alone—and that might be your body’s way of waving a red flag. At Craft of Dentistry, we see a lot of patients who don’t realize they have early signs of gum disease in Austin. And the truth is, gum health isn’t just about keeping your smile pretty. It’s about protecting your teeth, bone structure, and overall health.
Gum disease—also called periodontal disease—is more common than most people think. The good news? It’s preventable, treatable, and something we deal with every day. Let’s walk through the basics and share how our team can help keep your gums (and whole mouth) healthy for the long haul.
What Is Gum Disease, Really?
Gum disease starts with bacteria building up along and under your gumline. When plaque isn’t removed regularly through brushing, flossing, and cleanings, it hardens into tartar, which leads to inflammation. Early gum disease is called gingivitis. At this stage, your gums might feel tender, look red or swollen, or bleed a little when you brush. But here’s the thing—it can sneak up on you without pain.
If you don’t treat it, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis. This more advanced form of gum disease starts to attack the bone and ligaments that support your teeth. Left unchecked, it can cause gum recession, loose teeth, or even tooth loss.
Common Signs of Gum Disease in Austin Patients
You might notice:
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Chronic bad breath
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth or shifting bite
- Sensitivity near the gumline
If you’ve got one or more of these symptoms, it’s time to take action—and we’re here to help.
How We Treat Gum Disease at Craft of Dentistry
At Craft of Dentistry, our dentists customize treatment based on the stage of your gum disease. Dr. Yaron Shvets and Dr. Anne Lyon begin with a thorough exam, using modern diagnostics to evaluate gum pockets, bone loss, and inflammation.
Here’s what treatment might look like:
Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
This is the go-to treatment for moderate gum disease. Our hygienist uses special tools to clean below the gumline, removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the root surfaces. The dentist smooths out the roots so your gums can reattach and heal properly.
Antibiotic Therapy
We sometimes apply a topical antibiotic to infected pockets or prescribe an oral medication. This helps kill the bacteria contributing to gum disease and gives your gums a better chance to recover.
Ongoing Maintenance
After initial treatment, we’ll likely recommend more frequent cleanings—usually every 3 to 4 months. Our staff tracks your progress closely to ensure your gums stay healthy long-term. You can read more about our preventive services here.
Why It’s So Important to Catch It Early
We can’t stress this enough: early-stage gum disease is reversible. When we catch it in the gingivitis stage, professional cleanings combined with good at-home habits can quickly reverse the damage. But if it progresses, the damage can become permanent.
And gum disease doesn’t just stay in your mouth. Research links periodontal inflammation to health issues like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s. Keeping your gums healthy means protecting your whole body.
How to Prevent Gum Disease (It’s Easier Than You Think)
You’ve heard it before, but it’s worth repeating: consistency matters. Here’s how to reduce your risk of developing gum disease in Austin:
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush
- Floss daily (yes, really)
- Visit us for cleanings and checkups every six months
- Avoid tobacco products
- Eat a balanced diet
- Know your family history—genetics can play a role
If you haven’t had a cleaning in a while or you’ve noticed gum irritation, our team is here to guide you through the next steps.
Invest in Your Gum Health with Our Membership Savings Plan
Worried about costs? Our Membership Savings Plan makes dental care more affordable—even without insurance. You’ll get access to cleanings, exams, discounts on treatment, and more.
It’s our way of ensuring everyone can access top-tier dental care in Austin without surprises or hidden fees.
Let’s Get Your Gums Back on Track
If you think you might be dealing with gum disease or want to make sure your gums stay healthy, we’re ready to help. At Craft of Dentistry, our friendly, experienced team will guide you every step of the way—without judgment, pressure, or stress.
Let’s stop the bleeding, fix the inflammation, and keep your smile strong for life. Schedule your visit now and take the first step toward better gum health. We are located at 7002 Menchaca Rd #100, Austin, TX 78745. Our services include emergency dentistry, restorative dentistry, sleep apnea treatment, and more!