Gum Disease

Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss among adults. At Smile Design Advanced Dentistry in Brea, California, Oscar Marin, DDS, and his expert team offer preventive care that helps you avoid developing gum disease, and if necessary, additional treatments to repair your smile. Call the office today or set up an appointment online if you’re concerned about gum disease.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, describes infection of the tissue that surrounds your teeth. The infection infiltrates your gums, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. If left untreated, gum disease affects the structure of your teeth and even your jawbone. Tooth loss is a common result of untreated gum disease.

Gum disease affects more than your oral health, too. The inflammation can contribute to systemic problems like arthritis, stroke, and coronary artery disease (CAD).

How do I know I have gum disease?

Early gum disease, called gingivitis, shows up as gums that bleed when you brush or floss. They may look slightly puffy or inflamed. Getting early treatment for gingivitis helps you avoid full-blown periodontal disease.

Symptoms of more advanced periodontal disease include:

• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth and gums
• Receding gums
• Bad breath
• Swollen gums

If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment at Smile Design Advanced Dentistry. The skilled team offers treatments so you can avoid serious, long-term complications, including tooth loss. 

How do you treat gum disease?

Good oral hygiene can prevent gum disease from developing and reverse gingivitis (early gum disease). Brush thoroughly two times per day, floss once or twice daily, and rinse thoroughly with an antibacterial mouthwash. The team may also recommend more frequent professional cleanings to clear your teeth of plaque at the gumline. 

Gingivitis can lead to moderate or severe periodontal disease if left untreated. Moderate periodontal disease requires in-office treatments called scaling and root planing to restore your gum health. 

During scaling and root planing, the Smile Design Advanced Dentistry team carefully cleans your tooth root surfaces and removes tartar and plaque from gum pockets. You might need regular cleaning appointments to prevent gum disease from returning. 

Severe cases of gum disease require invasive treatment that involves pulling back the gum tissue to remove the disease-causing bacteria. The team then secures the gum tissue back in place. With time, the gums heal and re-adhere to your teeth. 

If you’re concerned about gum disease, call Smile Design Advanced Dentistry today or use the online tool to set up an appointment.