Gum Disease Treatment in San Diego, CA
Bleeding, swollen, or receding gums are often the first signs of gum disease, and they should never be ignored. At Apple Dental of San Diego, we diagnose gum disease at every stage and provide gentle, effective treatment to protect your teeth and your overall health. Call (619) 236-9549 to schedule a gum health evaluation.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along the gumline and hardens into tartar. Over time, the bacteria irritate the gums and can damage the bone that supports your teeth. Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults, but it is also highly treatable, especially when caught early.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage. Your gums may look red and swollen and bleed when you brush or floss. At this stage, the damage is usually reversible with professional dental cleanings and improved home care.
Periodontitis
If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis. The gums begin to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets where bacteria collect. You may notice receding gums, persistent bad breath, or teeth that feel loose.
Advanced Periodontitis
In the most advanced stage, the bone and tissue supporting your teeth are significantly damaged. Teeth may shift, loosen, or need to be removed. Treatment at this stage focuses on stopping the infection and preserving as many teeth as possible.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth
- Bad breath that does not go away
- Loose teeth or changes in your bite
- Tooth sensitivity near the gumline
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can develop gum disease, but some factors raise your risk, including smoking or tobacco use, diabetes, hormonal changes during pregnancy, certain medications that cause dry mouth, a family history of gum disease, and skipping regular dental visits. Research has also linked gum disease to other health concerns, which is why healthy gums matter for your whole body.
Gum Disease Treatment at Our Office
Your treatment plan depends on how far the disease has progressed. Early gingivitis often responds well to a thorough professional cleaning and better brushing and flossing habits. For deeper infections, our periodontal disease treatments clean below the gumline to remove tartar and bacteria from the pockets around your teeth and smooth the root surfaces so the gums can reattach. Our office also uses laser dentistry, which can treat gum tissue with greater precision and comfort. If teeth have been lost to gum disease, we can restore your smile with dental bridges or dentures and partial dentures.
Keeping Your Gums Healthy
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and visit us for checkups and cleanings. Patients who have been treated for periodontitis may need cleanings more often to keep the infection from returning. Explore other dental conditions we treat or see our full list of dental services.
Gum Disease FAQs
What are the first signs of gum disease?
Early signs include gums that bleed when you brush or floss, red or swollen gums, and gums that feel tender. Many people have no pain in the early stages.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Gingivitis, the earliest stage, can usually be reversed with professional cleanings and good home care. More advanced periodontitis can be treated and managed, but bone loss cannot be fully reversed.
How is gum disease treated?
Treatment depends on the stage. Options include professional cleanings, deep cleaning below the gumline to remove tartar and bacteria, and laser-assisted gum treatment.
Is gum disease treatment painful?
We keep you comfortable throughout treatment. Deep cleanings are typically done with local anesthetic, and most patients have only mild tenderness afterward.
Can gum disease cause tooth loss?
Yes. Untreated gum disease can destroy the bone and tissue that support your teeth, which can cause teeth to loosen and eventually fall out.
How often should I get cleanings if I have gum disease?
Patients with a history of periodontitis often need cleanings more often than every six months. We will recommend a schedule based on your gum health.
Does insurance cover gum disease treatment?
Many dental plans cover part of periodontal treatment. Our front office team can review your coverage, and we also offer financing through CareCredit and Sunbit.
Protect Your Gums and Your Smile
The sooner gum disease is treated, the easier it is to control. Call (619) 236-9549 or request an appointment online to schedule your gum health evaluation.