At Dr. Katie To, Center for Integrative Wellness and Cosmetic Dentistry, we strive to provide the most comprehensive dentistry available in Katy, TX, and beyond. The gums and underlying bone are the foundation for your teeth and smile, which is why Dr. Katie consistently monitors the health of both.

Without healthy gums, having good overall health is impossible. Researchers have linked periodontal gum disease to serious medical conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and even Alzheimer’s disease. A healthy mouth is integral to overall wellness and wellbeing.

In addition to the systemic implications of gum disease, gum recession, and bone loss can lead to tooth loss, which may have a dramatic impact on your smile and dietary choices.

We Partner with Our Patients in Oral Health

Keeping your mouth healthy requires dedication. The food and drinks we consume contribute to developing sticky biofilm, called plaque. Plaque will eventually blend with the minerals found in saliva and harden into tartar. Once tartar forms, it is as hard as cement and will not come off your teeth no matter how often you brush or floss. This is why regular dental cleanings and exams are essential. Our hygienist will use precision instruments to gently remove tartar.

When left at the gumline and between the teeth, tartar will begin to irritate delicate gum tissue, causing inflammation and infection, otherwise known as gingivitis, or periodontal disease. It is this inflammation and bacteria that researchers believe causes the most negative impact on the body.

How We Treat Gum Disease

Our team understands that words like “deep cleaning” can strike fear into the hearts of our patients. We want to assure you that we value providing a pain-free experience for every procedure. If we need to use a numbing agent, or if you are interested in dreaming your appointment away with sedation, we have you covered. In most cases, however, our patients find our gentle approach to caring for patients is enough.

At your hygiene exam, we will evaluate your gum health with small measurements of the pockets between the teeth and gums. Healthy gums cling tightly to the teeth. Deep pockets between the teeth and gums, or bleeding gums, indicate an infection.  We will also take a sample of your saliva and analyze it under a microscope.  We will be able to determine if there are any high risk bacteria and discuss solutions for removing them and keeping them away.

Often, removing tartar and cleaning the area will be enough to jump-start healing and make it possible for gums to recover. In advanced cases, or when high-risk bacteria are present, dental ozone therapy and laser therapy for gums can assist with healing. Of course, you will need to maintain good oral hygiene between dental visits. Using a new toothbrush after treatment and brushing your teeth for two minutes twice each day along with daily flossing will help keep your gums healthy.

Dr. Katie may recommend more frequent dental visits, natural supplements or medications, or changes to your health routine, depending on your specific needs. We can discuss how to best protect your smile at your next dental appointment.

Guided Biofilm Therapy

Our Biological Certified Dental Hygienists are knowledgeable and experienced with the latest and greatest in dental cleaning technologies and techniques.  They use the GBT, or Guided Biofilm Therapy, which is a new approach in professional dental cleanings for biofilm management.  The GBT administers a gentle, warm spray of water to remove biofilm from your teeth.  This means less scraping, which helps to preserve your enamel!  

Contact Our Katy, TX Dental Office

If you suspect you have gum disease, we welcome you to contact our Katy, TX dental office to book a judgment-free dental appointment. Our team will help you get back on track with your dental health.