At Boulder County Smiles, Dr. Gordon West and our experienced team see patients every week who didn’t realize they had gum disease until it progressed. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common oral health issue caused by plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film that naturally forms on teeth and can be resistant to brushing and flossing alone. Without proper care, it can irritate the gums and allow harmful bacteria to thrive—leading to lasting damage.
Common Warning Signs of Gum Disease
In its early stages, gum disease might not be painful, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t dangerous. Some symptoms to watch for include gums that bleed when brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, swelling, or tenderness. You might also notice your teeth feeling loose, changes in how they fit together when you bite, or the appearance of pockets between teeth and gums.
Even if these issues seem minor, they can worsen quickly. Left untreated, gum disease can destroy the bone that supports your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. It can also impact your overall health, with research linking periodontal disease to conditions like heart disease.
How Gum Disease is Diagnosed
Because symptoms are often subtle at first, regular dental visits are essential. During your exam, Dr. West measures the spaces between your teeth and gums to check for early signs of disease. Digital X-rays help evaluate bone health, and a thorough assessment reveals any other warning signs. Identifying gum disease early allows for faster, less invasive treatment.
Advanced Treatment Options
At Boulder County Smiles, we offer several effective gum disease treatments. For minor cases, a professional dental cleaning can make a big difference. For more advanced cases, we provide deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to remove bacteria and plaque beneath the gumline.
We also use CO₂ laser technology for a painless, precise treatment that cleans affected areas and promotes healing. After laser therapy, we may apply Arestin®, an antibiotic that targets lingering infection. For severe periodontitis, surgical options are available through our in-house specialist.
Why Prompt Treatment Matters
Delaying treatment not only increases the risk of tooth loss but can also affect your general health. Chronic inflammation from gum disease has been linked to cardiovascular problems, diabetes complications, and other systemic issues. By treating gum disease early, you preserve your teeth, protect your health, and maintain a confident smile.
Protecting Smiles Across Boulder County
Dr. Gordon West and the team at Boulder County Smiles are here to help you enjoy a healthy, pain-free smile. Whether you need preventive care or advanced gum disease treatment, we use modern technology and compassionate care to restore your oral health. We proudly serve patients from Lafayette, Boulder, and Longmont. Don’t ignore the signs—schedule your gum evaluation today.
Contact Boulder County Smiles:
303-665-5335
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026
