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!
A bright, confident smile can transform the way you feel about yourself—and how others see you. If you’re searching for a cosmetic dentist in Spring, TX, you’ve likely come across two of the most popular treatments for enhancing your smile: veneers and teeth whitening . Both options can improve the look of your teeth, but they work in different ways and deliver different results. So— which treatment is right for you? What Is Teeth Whitening? Teeth whitening is a noninvasive cosmetic treatment designed to lighten natural tooth color by removing surface stains. Whether stains come from coffee, wine, smoking, or aging, whitening can help restore brightness. Benefits of Teeth Whitening Fast results Non-invasive More affordable than veneers Great option before special events Performed safely by a cosmetic dentist When Teeth Whitening May Not Be Enough While whitening helps remove stains, it cannot correct: Deep internal discoloration Chipped or cracked teeth Crooked or uneven teeth Dark spots from trauma or medication If these issues apply to you, veneers may be a better option. Best for: Patients with healthy teeth who want a noticeable brightness boost. Considering Whitening in Spring, TX? Professional whitening at Rayford Dental on Rayford Road provides brighter, more even results than drugstore products. Our team customizes your whitening plan for safe, lasting results. What Are Veneers? Veneers are ultra-thin porcelain shells bonded to the front of your teeth to improve their shape, shade, and overall appearance. This cosmetic treatment offers a complete smile transformation—fast. Benefits of Veneers Instantly whiter, more symmetrical smile Can correct chips, cracks, gaps, and uneven teeth Long-lasting (10–15 years) Stain-resistant Natural-looking results Things to Consider About Veneers Higher investment than whitening Irreversible process Requires two visits Best for: Patients seeking long-term cosmetic results beyond whitening. Veneers vs. Teeth Whitening: Key Differences While both veneers and teeth whitening can improve your smile, they do so in different ways. Teeth whitening focuses on brightening your natural teeth. It works best for people with stains caused by foods, drinks, tobacco, or aging. The results are noticeable but not permanent, lasting months to a few years depending on lifestyle habits. Whitening is non-invasive, budget-friendly, and a great first step for mild to moderate discoloration. On the other hand, veneers provide a more complete cosmetic transformation. They are thin porcelain shells placed on the front of the teeth to improve color, shape, size, and alignment. Veneers can correct issues that whitening cannot, including chips, cracks, gaps, and deep internal stains. They typically last 10–15+ years and resist discoloration, but they require a greater investment and minimal enamel reduction. In short: Choose teeth whitening if you want a quick brightness boost and your teeth are otherwise healthy. Choose veneers if you want a long-lasting, dramatic transformation that addresses cosmetic concerns beyond color. Which Option Is Best for You? Choose Teeth Whitening if: Your teeth are healthy You only want a brighter smile You want a lower-cost cosmetic treatment You prefer a non-invasive option Whitening may not be ideal if: You have deep discoloration or structural damage Choose Veneers if: You want long-term cosmetic enhancement You have chips, gaps, or uneven teeth You want a dramatic transformation You want permanent white teeth that resist stains Veneers offer stronger cosmetic benefits for those seeking a Hollywood-style smile. What Do Patients Choose Most in Spring, TX? At Rayford Dental , many patients begin with whitening but choose veneers if they desire: A more uniform smile Better symmetry A dramatic, lasting change Both treatments can deliver excellent results—but they serve different goals. The best way to decide is through a personalized consultation with our experienced cosmetic dental team. Why Choose Rayford Dental for Cosmetic Dentistry in Spring, TX? If you’re researching veneers in Spring, TX or teeth whitening near Rayford Road , choosing the right dentist is essential. At Rayford Dental , we offer: ✔ Personalized smile evaluations ✔ Advanced cosmetic techniques ✔ Transparent pricing and financing guidance ✔ Natural-looking results designed for your face and features ✔ Gentle, comfortable care We don’t just improve your smile, we help you feel more confident every day. Ready for a Brighter Smile? Whether you're leaning toward veneers or whitening, our team will help you choose what best fits your goals, budget, and lifestyle. ➡️ Schedule your smile consultation today When it comes to enhancing your smile, both veneers and teeth whitening are powerful options. Whitening is ideal for quick, affordable improvements, while veneers offer long-lasting, comprehensive cosmetic results. If you’re unsure, we can help you explore each option with a customized treatment plan tailored to your smile goals. Ready to love your smile again? Book your cosmetic consultation today at Rayford Dental in Spring, TX
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