We help patients in Keller, TX protect their smiles with preventive dental care that stops gum disease before it starts—keeping teeth strong, gums healthy, and smiles confident.
Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems in adults, yet it’s also one of the most preventable. It starts quietly—with mild inflammation or bleeding gums—and can progress into a serious condition that leads to bone loss and even tooth loss if ignored. The good news? With the right habits and professional care, you can prevent gum disease from ever taking hold.
At Pickett Family Dental, we’re passionate about helping patients maintain healthy gums through education, routine cleanings, and preventive treatment. Here’s how gum disease develops, what early signs to look for, and what you can do to stop it before it starts.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, develops when bacteria-filled plaque builds up along and under the gumline. If plaque isn’t removed through daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and causes inflammation.
The earliest stage—gingivitis—is reversible. However, if left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis, a more serious infection that affects the bone and tissue supporting your teeth. Over time, this can lead to gum recession, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.
Factors that increase the risk of gum disease include:
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Poor oral hygiene habits
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Smoking or tobacco use
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Dry mouth
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Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause)
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Certain medications
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Diabetes or other systemic health issues
Understanding the causes helps you take the right steps to protect your gum health before problems develop.
Early Warning Signs to Watch For
Gum disease doesn’t always cause pain at first, which is why many people don’t notice it until it’s more advanced. Knowing what to look for can help you catch it early.
Common symptoms include:
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Red, swollen, or tender gums
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Bleeding when brushing or flossing
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Persistent bad breath
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Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
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Sensitivity along the gumline
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Loose teeth or shifting bite
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a dental exam. Early detection is the key to stopping gum disease before it causes permanent damage.
Daily Habits That Keep Gums Healthy
Healthy gums start with a consistent home care routine. Simple, consistent habits make a big difference in preventing plaque buildup and inflammation.
Brush twice a day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to clean along the gumline where bacteria tend to gather.
Floss daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach. Make it part of your nightly routine for the best protection.
Use mouthwash: An antimicrobial mouthwash can reduce bacteria and freshen breath while helping control plaque buildup.
Eat a balanced diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks that feed harmful bacteria. Instead, focus on nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins that support gum health.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food debris and keeps your mouth moist, which helps prevent bacteria from multiplying.
These small steps add up to big protection when practiced consistently.
Professional Cleanings Make All the Difference
Even with great brushing and flossing, plaque can still harden into tartar over time. Once that happens, only a professional cleaning can remove it. That’s why routine dental visits every six months are essential.
During a cleaning at Pickett Family Dental, we:
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Gently remove tartar and plaque buildup
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Polish your teeth to smooth enamel and reduce future buildup
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Examine your gums for early signs of inflammation
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Offer personalized tips to improve your home care routine
If you have early-stage gum disease, we may recommend a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). This treatment removes tartar from below the gumline and smooths the roots of your teeth, allowing gums to heal and reattach properly.
Regular checkups not only prevent gum disease—they help keep your whole mouth healthier.
The Connection Between Gum Health and Overall Health
Your mouth is the gateway to your body, and gum health plays a bigger role in overall wellness than many people realize. Studies show that gum disease has been linked to systemic health conditions such as:
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Heart disease
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Diabetes
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Stroke
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Respiratory infections
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Pregnancy complications
Inflamed gums allow harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream, which can contribute to inflammation throughout the body. Taking care of your gums isn’t just about protecting your smile—it’s about protecting your overall health.
What to Do If You Already Have Gum Disease
If you’ve been diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis, don’t panic—effective treatments are available. Early-stage gum disease can often be reversed with improved hygiene and professional cleanings.
For advanced cases, we offer scaling and root planing, localized antibiotic therapy, and maintenance programs to manage the condition and restore gum health. Our goal is to prevent further progression and keep your natural teeth strong for years to come.
The sooner you take action, the easier it is to manage and prevent lasting damage.
We Can Show You How to Prevent Gum Disease
Get the help you need to stop gum disease before it starts with preventive care from Pickett Family Dental in Keller, TX. Our experienced team provides comprehensive exams, gentle cleanings, and personalized guidance to help you maintain a healthy smile for life.
Whether you’re due for a routine checkup or noticing early signs of gum irritation, we’re here to help you take control of your oral health. Schedule your appointment today and discover how simple habits—and regular professional care—can keep your teeth and gums strong for years to come.
Protect your smile now, and you’ll thank yourself later.
