Gum Disease: What It Is, How You Get It, and How to Treat It
July 20, 2025
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common but serious infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It starts with gingivitis—mild inflammation of the gums—and can progress to periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss if not treated.
It’s one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss and affects nearly half of adults over 30 to some degree.
How Do You Get Gum Disease?
Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. When plaque isn't removed by daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
The bacteria in plaque and tartar trigger inflammation, leading to:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth (in advanced cases)
Risk factors include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Diabetes
- Hormonal changes (like pregnancy)
- Genetics
- Stress and certain medications
Symptoms of Gum Disease
You may have gum disease if you notice any of the following:
- Bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums pulling away from teeth
- Tender or swollen gums
- Changes in bite or how your teeth fit together
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, don’t wait—early treatment can prevent permanent damage.
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
At Rayford Dental, we offer personalized, effective treatments depending on how advanced the gum disease is.
Gingivitis (Early Stage)
- Professional dental cleanings
- Improved home care (brushing, flossing, mouth rinse)
- Patient education and follow-ups
Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)
- Deep cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing) to remove tartar and bacteria below the gumline
- Antibiotics or medicated rinses
- Laser therapy or surgery in severe cases
- Maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months
Tips to Prevent Gum Disease
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily (yes, it really matters!)
- Visit your dentist every 6 months (or more if needed)
- Avoid smoking or tobacco
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins, especially C and D
- Stay hydrated—saliva helps fight bacteria
Take Action Early — Your Smile Depends On It
Gum disease is silent but serious—you may not feel pain until damage is already done. That’s why regular dental visits are so important.
If you’re noticing bleeding, tenderness, or bad breath. At Rayford Dental we’ll evaluate your gums and guide you toward a healthier, more confident smile.
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Call now or schedule your appointment online.
Your gums will thank you!
Experiencing tooth pain or damage? Get expert tooth extraction care at Rayford Dental in Spring, TX. Book your appointment today.
Maintaining a bright, healthy smile isn’t just about brushing and flossing. What you eat every day has a major impact on your oral health. Choosing the right foods for healthy teeth can strengthen your enamel, prevent cavities, and keep your gums strong—while the wrong choices can quickly damage your smile. At Rayford Dental in Spring, TX , we help our patients understand how diet plays a crucial role in oral health. This simple guide will walk you through the best and worst foods for your teeth and show you how making better choices today can protect your smile for years to come. Why Nutrition Matters for Your Oral Health Your teeth are living structures that need the right nutrients to stay strong. Enamel the protective layer around your teeth can weaken when exposed to acids and sugars. Meanwhile, your gums require vitamins and minerals to fight off infection and inflammation. When patients come to Rayford Dental , many are surprised to learn that everyday habits like sipping soda or skipping calcium-rich foods directly affect their dental health. The good news? With the right nutrition and professional care, you can restore balance and enjoy a healthier smile. Best Foods for Healthy Teeth Here are some of the top foods to add to your daily diet if you want to improve your oral health: 1. Dairy Products (Milk, Cheese, Yogurt) Calcium and phosphorus are essential for rebuilding enamel. Cheese also increases saliva production, which naturally cleans your mouth. 2. Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables Apples, carrots, and celery act like natural toothbrushes, scrubbing away plaque while stimulating saliva. 3. Leafy Greens Spinach, kale, and broccoli are packed with calcium, folic acid, and vitamins that support strong teeth and gums. 4. Nuts and Seeds Almonds, cashews, and sunflower seeds are rich in essential minerals and healthy fats that protect enamel and reduce inflammation. 5. Water Staying hydrated keeps your mouth moist and helps wash away food particles and bacteria. Fluoridated water, common in Spring, TX, also strengthens teeth. Ready to improve your dental health with personalized care? Schedule your appointment with Rayford Dental today and let us guide you toward a healthier smile. Worst Foods for Your Teeth Even if you brush and floss daily, certain foods can cause long-term harm. Being aware of them helps you make smarter choices. H3 1. Sugary Snacks and Drinks Candies, sodas, and sports drinks feed the bacteria that cause cavities. Sticky candies are especially harmful because they cling to enamel. H3 2. Acidic Foods and Beverages Citrus fruits, tomatoes, coffee, and wine erode enamel over time. Enjoy them in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward. H3 3. Starchy Foods Chips, white bread, and pasta break down into sugars that fuel harmful bacteria in your mouth. H3 4. Alcohol Not only does alcohol dry out your mouth, but it can also weaken gums and increase the risk of tooth decay. H3 5. Hard Foods and Ice Chewing on hard candies or ice can crack or chip your teeth, leading to costly dental treatments. H2 The Balance: Moderation and Professional Care It’s not about eliminating all your favorite foods, it's about balance. For example, if you enjoy citrus fruits or coffee, rinse with water afterward and brush your teeth 30 minutes later to reduce enamel erosion. Patients often tell us they want practical solutions, not impossible diets. At Rayford Dental, we combine expert advice with modern treatments to keep your smile strong, no matter your lifestyle. H2 Why Choose Rayford Dental in Spring, TX? Healthy habits at home are essential, but regular dental checkups are the foundation of long-term oral health. At Rayford Dental , we provide: Preventive cleanings and exams to stop small issues before they grow. Personalized advice on diet and nutrition tailored to your needs. Advanced treatments to restore and protect your smile. A friendly, experienced team located conveniently on Rayford Road in Spring, TX. Your smile deserves expert care. With the right foods, daily habits, and professional dental support, you can protect your teeth for life. Choosing the right foods for healthy teeth is one of the simplest ways to protect your oral health. Combine smart nutrition with regular visits to your dentists , and you’ll enjoy a stronger, brighter smile for years to come. Don’t wait until pain or cavities appear. contact us today to book your appointment and take the first step toward healthier teeth and gums.
