Gum Disease Treatment and Periodontal Care in Valencia, CA

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. The CDC describes gums that become red, swollen and may bleed easily, and says gingivitis is largely preventable and treatable with routine oral hygiene and professional cleanings.

Left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis. A main feature of periodontitis is bone loss around the affected teeth, and the CDC states that it cannot be reversed, though it can be slowed down and managed with professional treatment.

Bleeding gums are one of the signs of gum disease the CDC lists. The others include red, swollen or tender gums, gums that have moved away from the teeth, loose or sensitive teeth, painful chewing, and changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite. NIDCR adds persistent bad breath.

Gum disease can often become serious before a person notices any symptoms, according to the CDC, which recommends a dental checkup at least once a year.

Gum disease starts with plaque. The CDC explains that plaque left on the teeth usually hardens into tartar, which brushing cannot remove. Bacteria can then spread below the gumline and form a periodontal pocket, an abnormal deepening of the space between tooth and gum.

NIDCR names smoking or tobacco use as the most significant of the risk factors for gum disease, with older age, diabetes and genetics among the others.

NIDCR describes the gum examination: a probe measures the pockets around each tooth, which are usually between 1 and 3 millimeters in a healthy mouth. Deeper pockets can be a sign of periodontal disease. An X-ray can show whether there is bone loss, and your medical history matters because conditions such as tobacco use or diabetes can contribute.

We use digital X-rays, which typically use less radiation than traditional film.

The CDC notes that treatment for periodontitis might include a non-surgical deep cleaning. The American Academy of Periodontology describes scaling and root planing as a deep cleaning of the tooth root surfaces. Scaling removes plaque and bacterial toxins from beneath the gumline, and root planing smooths the root to help prevent plaque and toxins from sticking again.

Prescribed medication, such as an oral rinse or medicine placed directly under the affected gums, and surgical procedures are other forms of periodontal treatment the CDC lists. NIDCR notes that the number and types of treatments vary with the extent of the disease.

Smile Care Valencia uses a laser for selected gum and soft-tissue procedures. In appropriate cases, laser treatment may reduce bleeding, minimise discomfort and make recovery easier.

The AAP reports that controlled studies have found similar results with laser treatment compared with other non-surgical options, including scaling and root planing alone. Whether laser dentistry suits your case is something to discuss at your visit.

A periodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease, as NIDCR puts it. The CDC notes that more severe forms of gum disease may include referral to one, and the AAP says a periodontist may recommend gum surgery when non-surgical treatment does not achieve periodontal health.

Dr. Raffie Garabedian is the periodontist on our team, working alongside Dr. Robert P. Hedvat, our general dentist, and Dolores, our registered dental hygienist.

The AAP says many patients need no additional treatment after scaling and root planing, but the majority will require ongoing periodontal maintenance to sustain periodontal health.

NIDCR says any type of treatment requires good daily oral care at home, including brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing, or using an interdental brush, a pick or a water flosser recommended by a dental professional. Tobacco use can delay healing and make treatment for gum disease less successful.

We accept most PPO dental plans. Because benefits and network participation vary by plan, our team will gladly verify your coverage before treatment. We also accept CareCredit and offer financial arrangements.