The Dangers of Enlarged Gum Pockets

/in /by

Have you ever wondered why one of the first things your dentist in Katy, TX does at your dental exam is to use a probe in your mouth and call out numbers to the dental hygienist? This mysterious process is actually integral to caring for your teeth and gums. The dentist is measuring your gum pockets, but they aren’t looking for spare change. While some dentists in the past may have never explained to you the dangers of enlarged gum pockets, we’re here to inform!

What Are Gum Pockets?

Gum pockets, or periodontal pockets, aren’t places where you can store your gum until you’re ready to chew again. It’s the term for the spaces between your teeth and gums that can deepen when gum tissue pulls away from the teeth. In healthy gums, these pockets typically measure between 1 to 3 millimeters, which allows the gum to fit snugly around the tooth.

The Role of Measurement Increments

Your dentist uses what’s called a periodontal probe to measure the depth of gum pockets. When pockets reach 6 millimeters or more, they indicate advanced periodontal disease. These larger pockets create a breeding ground for bacteria, allowing them to thrive below the gumline and causing inflammation, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss if left untreated.

Increased Risk of Infection

Enlarged gum pockets can harbor bacteria and plaque that are difficult to remove through regular brushing and flossing. As bacteria accumulate in these deep pockets, they trigger the body’s immune response, causing chronic inflammation. This can lead to the breakdown of gum tissue and bone, making the teeth unstable and more likely to fall out.

So, unlike your favorite jacket where you keep your hands warm during the chilly months in Texas, the larger the gum pockets are, the worse it is and the sooner you need treatment. Book your next Katy, TX dental exam today!

3 Possible Causes of Bleeding Gums

/in /by

It’s scary to look down at your toothbrush and see red. It’s even worse if you discover that you can taste blood in your mouth, or you notice that your gums bleed when you chew food. Contrary to popular belief, no amount of bleeding gums is normal. Repeat. Your gums should not bleed. If they are bleeding, and you can’t determine the cause at home, you should immediately book an appointment with your Houston, TX dentist at Chloe Dental. Here are three possible causes of bleeding gums:

1. You’re Brushing Too Hard

We get it. You want to do a really good job at brushing your teeth, so you never have to worry about cavities or gum disease. So you buy a firm-bristle toothbrush, scrub really hard and spend lots of time brushing. Well, it’s possible that the reason your gums are bleeding is that you’re actually overdoing it. Gums are made up of soft tissue, so it’s possible you’re being too aggressive while brushing. Try switching to a softer brush and lightening up on your elbow grease.

2. Gum Disease

Bleeding gums is a leading indicator of developing gum disease. Poor oral hygiene allows plaque buildup, leading to gum inflammation, redness, and bleeding especially when brushing or flossing. Get to a dentist as soon as possible so your oral health problems can be addressed.

3. Vitamin Deficiency

Are you eating well, and getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs? If your gums are bleeding, maybe not. Lack of certain vitamins, particularly vitamin C and vitamin K, can result in weakened gums that are more prone to bleeding. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients can help maintain healthy gums.

Don’t play roulette with your gum health. There is help for bleeding gums in Houston, TX. Contact us to learn more.

What Can the Color of Your Gums Say About Oral Health

/in /by

Whether you are looking into laser gum surgery in Houston, TX, or a cosmetic dental procedure, the health of your gingival tissue is crucial. While many patients are not aware that their gums have issues until they visit a dentist, there can be telltale signs that something is wrong. Take a look at what the color of your gums can be trying to tell you about your oral health. 

White Spots 

White spots on your gums could indicate something like leukoplakia, which is often caused by irritation from smoking or other sources. It can also be a sign of oral thrush, which is a fungal infection that affects the soft tissues in your mouth. Any of these issues should be appropriately evaluated by a dentist. 

Dark Spots 

Dark spots on your gums might suggest melanin pigmentation, which is usually harmless but can sometimes indicate other underlying issues like gingivitis or lack of blood flow to certain parts of your mouth. Be sure to have these spots evaluated by a dentist to rule out any concerns.

Redness

Red or inflamed gums are often a sign of gingivitis or periodontal disease. This is caused by bacteria buildup along the gum line, leading to inflammation and potential bleeding. You may also notice that you are seeing more blood than usual when you brush your teeth. Redness can also suggest infection surrounding a tooth, which could put the integrity of the entire tooth at risk. 

Discuss Gum Concerns with a Dentist in Houston, TX 

If you notice any unusual changes in the color of your gums or have concerns about your oral health, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with a dentist in Houston, TX. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Chloe Dental for expert care and personalized treatment tailored to your needs.

When Do You Need Gum Surgery?

/in /by

Gum surgery is a major operation, so having all the facts is important before you take the leap. We’ll look at the facts of gum disease and erosion, what the procedure entails, and what you can do to avoid the odds of surgery altogether.

Periodontal Disorders and Causes

Standard periodontal disorders include periodontal disease and eroding gums. Symptoms include recession, deep pockets, pus between the gums and teeth, as well as loose teeth. Periodontitis is typically caused by bacteria, which occur when the sugars and starches in food react with the existing bacteria in your mouth and then harden into either plaque or tartar.

What Is Gum Surgery?

During gum surgery, an oral surgeon in Houston, TX, will typically harvest tissues from the roof of your mouth and then graft the tissues onto the gums. The idea is that your body will receive the tissues so your gums are strong enough to withstand normal wear and tear. At Chloe Dental, you can find laser gum surgery in Houston, so there’s less recovery time after the procedure.

How to Avoid Gum Surgery

Gum surgery is typically reserved for the most extreme cases. Long before you have to set up an appointment in the OR, you can schedule routine cleanings and deep planning sessions in Houston, TX, to keep your gums strong and healthy. You may also need to back off on your oral hygiene routine, choosing gentler instruments less likely to harm the gums.

Visit a Dentist in Katy

At Chloe Dental, with locations in Houston and Katy, TX, you’ll meet a dentist who can give you facts about how to care for your gums. No matter how long it’s been since you’ve had an appointment, you can contact us today to get the care and recommendations you need.

Tips for Faster Recovery After Gum Surgery

/in /by

Are you anticipating laser gum surgery in Houston, TX? Gum surgery can be necessary with several cosmetic and general oral health procedures. Thankfully, laser gum surgery has already accelerated the recovery process due to minimal tissue damage. However, you can also do a few things during recovery to ensure you heal as quickly as possible.

Avoiding Activities That Can Delay Healing

Certain activities can delay your healing after gum surgery and should be avoided during the first several days. A few things your dentist will likely tell you to avoid include smoking or using smokeless tobacco, drinking from a straw, and doing anything that would lead to too much pressure on the gums.

Oral Hygiene Practices During Recovery

While your gums recover, you may need to adjust your oral hygiene practices. For example, you may need to be selective about what kind of mouthwash or toothpaste you use, as some may impede the healing process. You may also need to avoid high-pressure water flossing systems for a few days to avoid accidentally damaging the healing tissue.

Dietary Adjustments for Healing

Certain foods and beverages may also be best avoided to speed up recovery after gum surgery. It is not uncommon for dentists to recommend avoiding overly hot beverages like coffee or tea. Dense, hard-to-chew foods that can be abrasive to the gum tissue as it heals may also be advised.

Get the Specifics About Gum Surgery from Your Houston, TX Dentist

It is important to discuss the specifics before any gum surgery with a Houston dentist. If you are interested in minimally invasive gum surgery, be sure to reach out to the team at Chloe Dental to schedule an appointment.