If your gums bleed when you brush, feel tender, or are starting to recede, you could be dealing with periodontitis — a more advanced stage of gum disease. It’s more common than most people think and can develop slowly over time. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and impact your overall health.

The good news? There are effective treatments available — and they’re more manageable than many expect.

At Serenity Dental Studio in Frisco, TX, Dr. Rita Kengskool helps patients catch and manage gum disease before it leads to bigger problems.

Deep Cleanings (Scaling and Root Planing)

For many patients, treatment starts with a deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing or non-surgical periodontal therapy. This process removes plaque and tartar below the gum line, reducing bacteria. The goal is to reduce the body’s inflammatory response and encourage the gums to reattach.

It’s more thorough than a regular cleaning and is done with numbing for comfort. Most patients complete it in one or two visits. Afterward, you’ll likely have follow-up visits to monitor healing and keep everything stable.

Deep cleanings are the first step for mild to moderate periodontitis — and they’re often enough to stop the condition from progressing.

Periodontal Maintenance

Once you’ve had a deep cleaning, routine cleanings may no longer be enough to manage your gum health. That’s where periodontal maintenance comes in. These visits happen more often — usually every three to four months — and focus on keeping harmful bacteria in check.

When gum pockets are deeper than 4mm, toothbrushes and floss can’t reach the base. The bacteria that thrive there are anaerobic, meaning they don’t need oxygen. As this bacteria ages, it becomes more aggressive and triggers a stronger inflammatory response from your body.

During maintenance visits, your hygienist can gently clean those pockets and flush out bacteria that even the best homecare can’t touch. This helps reduce inflammation, slow the progression of gum disease, and keep your mouth more stable between visits.

Advanced Treatment Options

In more severe cases, you may need to be referred to a specialist. Periodontists can offer procedures like gum surgery, laser therapy, or bone grafting if bone loss has occurred.

At Serenity Dental Studio, Dr. Kengskool will coordinate care closely if a referral is needed, so you’re supported through every step.

Gum Disease Treatment in Frisco, TX at Serenity Dental Studio

At Serenity Dental Studio in Frisco, TX, Dr. Rita Kengskool offers personalized treatment plans for patients dealing with periodontitis. Whether you need a deep cleaning or help managing ongoing symptoms, we’ll help you take the next step toward healthier gums — and a stronger smile.

Schedule a visit today to talk through your options and get your gum health back on track.

Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is often associated with heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions. But did you know that it can also impact your oral health? The link between high blood pressure and periodontal (gum) disease is becoming increasingly clear, and it’s something worth paying attention to. Let’s explore how hypertension can affect your gums and what you can do to protect your oral health.

The Connection Between Hypertension and Gum Disease

Research shows a significant connection between high blood pressure and gum disease. Chronic high blood pressure can reduce blood flow to the gums, weakening the tissue and making it more prone to infection. On the other hand, severe gum disease can trigger inflammation in the body, which can make blood pressure harder to control. Essentially, the two conditions can feed into each other.

Medication Side Effects

Many people with hypertension take medications to manage their blood pressure, but some of these medications can have side effects that affect oral health. For example, some blood pressure medications can cause dry mouth, which reduces saliva production. Saliva is essential for washing away food particles and neutralizing acids, so a lack of saliva can lead to a higher risk of cavities and gum disease.

Increased Risk of Periodontal Disease

People with high blood pressure are more likely to develop periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease. Symptoms include bleeding gums, gum recession, and loose teeth. Because hypertension affects the body’s ability to fight infection, your gums may not heal as quickly, and gum disease can progress more rapidly if left untreated.

How to Protect Your Gums

If you have high blood pressure, there are steps you can take to protect your gum health:

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to keep your gums healthy.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat dry mouth caused by medications.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups are crucial for detecting gum disease early. Your dentist can help you stay ahead of any issues and recommend treatments if necessary.

Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Keep track of your blood pressure and follow your doctor’s recommendations to manage it effectively. Reducing your blood pressure can help reduce the risk of developing gum disease.

Gum Health and Blood Pressure at Serenity Dental Studio in Frisco, TX

At Serenity Dental Studio in Frisco, TX, Dr. Rita Kengskool understands the intricate connection between your overall health and oral health. If you’re managing high blood pressure, we’re here to help protect your gums and maintain a healthy smile. Schedule an appointment with us today to ensure your gums stay strong and your oral health remains in check.