Periodontal Disease and Treatments in South Park, San Diego
Your dental health is about much more than your teeth. Healthy gums form the foundation of a healthy smile, which is why periodontal disease poses such a serious risk to your overall well-being. At Apple Dental of San Diego, our dentist care for your entire smile, using gentle and effective treatment to protect the health of your gums. If you are concerned about your gum health, make an appointment today and let Dr. Phan give your gums the care they deserve.
Book OnlineOur Gum Disease Treatment Services
Our dentist have treated numerous cases of gum disease over the years. Their experience and genuine compassion for their patients allow them to provide exceptional treatment while keeping you comfortable and cared for every step of the way.
When you visit Apple Dental of San Diego, the dentist will carefully examine your gums to determine whether gum disease is present and which treatment will be most effective for your situation.
In most cases, the best course of action is a scaling and root planing procedure. The dentist removes plaque and tartar that has built up around and below the gumline, relieving irritation and inflammation. He will then smooth the root surfaces to allow the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth. Our team takes great care to eliminate the risk of infection and to preserve your long-term dental health. Maintaining healthy gums also protects the success of treatments like bridges and helps prevent the need for tooth extractions down the road.
Gum Disease Symptoms and Warning Signs
Nearly half of all American adults over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease. Because the symptoms often start small, it can be easy to overlook. This makes it essential to monitor your gum health closely and to keep up with regular cleanings and exams.
Periodontal disease typically begins as gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums. Inflamed gums appear red and puffy and may bleed during brushing or flossing. This is most often caused by bacterial plaque that has accumulated around the gumline and hardened into tartar, irritating the surrounding tissue. If left untreated, gingivitis can worsen into periodontitis.
At this more advanced stage, bacteria infect the gums and begin to damage the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth. The gums start to pull away from the teeth and become sensitive to touch and to extreme temperatures. Over time, periodontitis can loosen teeth, and extraction may eventually become necessary.
When to See the Dentist
To ensure your gums receive the care they need, be sure to schedule regular visits every six months. These appointments allow the dentist to monitor your gum health and reduce the risk of tartar buildup before it leads to bigger problems.
In addition to routine visits, we recommend that you make an appointment if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Inflamed or swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- A receding gumline
- Pain when chewing
- Gum sensitivity
- Loose adult teeth
Certain factors can increase your risk of periodontal disease, including poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, conditions such as diabetes, and medications that cause dry mouth. Women experiencing hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy, may also face a higher risk of gum disease.
Be sure to visit us so we can discuss your potential risk factors. Our dentist will work to keep your gums in the best possible health and protect your smile for years to come.
Protecting Smiles Throughout San Diego
Apple Dental of San Diego is proud to serve patients throughout San Diego, CA and the South Park community. We believe that healthy gums are the cornerstone of a healthy smile, and we are dedicated to providing the gentle, thorough periodontal care your family deserves. Call our office today at (619) 236-9549 to schedule your appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It begins as gingivitis, a mild inflammation of the gums, and can progress to periodontitis, which damages the soft tissue and bone if left untreated.
What are the early warning signs of gum disease?
Common early signs include red, swollen, or puffy gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, and gum tenderness. Because these symptoms can be subtle, regular dental visits are key to catching gum disease early.
Is gum disease reversible?
In its earliest stage, gingivitis is often reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care. More advanced periodontitis cannot be fully reversed, but it can be managed and controlled with proper treatment to prevent further damage.
What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from around and below the gumline. The root surfaces are then smoothed to help the gums heal and reattach to the teeth, reducing irritation and infection.
Does periodontal treatment hurt?
Our dentist take great care to keep you comfortable during treatment, often using a local anesthetic for procedures like scaling and root planing. Most patients experience only mild sensitivity afterward, which typically resolves quickly.
Can gum disease affect my overall health?
Yes. Research has linked gum disease to other health concerns, including heart disease, diabetes, and complications during pregnancy. Maintaining healthy gums is an important part of protecting your overall well-being.
How can I prevent gum disease?
You can lower your risk by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, avoiding tobacco, and keeping up with regular dental cleanings and exams every six months. These habits help control the plaque and tartar that lead to gum disease.