Gum disease refers to an infection of the gum tissue that affects more than half of adults in the United States. You will need therapy and targeted treatment from your dentist to get rid of this disease. Even after you eradicate the infection, you might notice it left changes in your smile that make you unhappy with your smile’s appearance.
You can schedule a cosmetic dental consultation to find an individualized treatment that will get your smile looking and feeling its best again. Read on to learn how your dentist can fix lingering aesthetic concerns in your smile after treating gum disease.
Fixing Cosmetic Dental Problems from Gum Disease
Reduce Puffiness in Gums
In the early stage of gum disease, gingivitis, the infection often presents with inflamed gums. The gums can appear red, swollen, and might even bleed. Patients can feel self-conscious about a puffy appearance in their gums.
Fortunately, in most cases, this swelling will go down on its own when patients receive gum disease treatment. The dentist will scrape away excess bacteria and plaque from hard-to-reach spots like deep in the gum pocket.
They may also suggest using an antibacterial mouthwash to balance natural oral bacteria. This will keep further infections at bay and relieve any lingering uncomfortable symptoms. Talk to your dentist if swelling or other issues seem to remain after your periodontal therapy.
Fix Spacing Issues Between Teeth
Swelling and dental damage from gum disease may cause your teeth to shift out of their straight position. They can then become crooked, overlapped, or gapped. This can disrupt the look of your smile and also put your teeth in danger of further oral health complications.
To make your smile appear straighter and get rid of this risk, your dentist can suggest a few cosmetic dental treatments. Teeth bonding, for instance, will use resin to fill gaps in your smile, including black triangles that may form irregular spacing concerns between teeth. Porcelain veneers can also cover your teeth to build a straighter and more even smile.
Your dentist may also give you Invisalign, sets of clear plastic aligners that will gradually shift your teeth into a straighter position that suits your unique smile. If you have more severe bite problems after gum disease, your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist.
Replace Missing Teeth
Gum disease will eat away at the teeth and jawbone if it progresses, and it is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. If you lose one or more teeth, you will see gaps interrupting your smile’s appearance. But missing teeth will lead to further decline of your oral health.
You can work with your dentist to replace missing teeth and preserve and restore your smile. Dental implants will offer the most comprehensive benefits of tooth replacement.
Whether you want permanent or removable dental fixtures, your dentist can work with your preferences for tooth replacement. Schedule a consult with your dentist to find the best dental treatment for your unique needs.