We Prevent Gum Infection from Progressing With a Range of Periodontal Treatments

Did you know gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss? Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is an infection of the gums and the surrounding structures. Because it’s virtually painless, many people don’t know they have the disease until it’s too late. That’s why routine dental check-ups are essential to detect and treat gum disease before it causes irreversible damage.

Embark on a journey of optimal oral wellness with gum disease treatment at Pearls of Dentistry. Drs. Juergen Langenbach and Lynne Thomas use non-invasive procedures to overcome gum disease in Poway, California, and the surrounding locations.

How does gum disease develop?

Dental plaque is the primary cause of periodontal disease. This thin, colorless bacteria film develops when you fail to brush and floss your teeth properly. As a result, harmful bacteria mix with food debris and saliva to create an oral biofilm that clings to your tooth surface and along the gum line.

The bacteria in dental plaque secrete toxins that irritate your gums, causing inflammation commonly referred to as gingivitis. As the earliest and mildest form of gum disease, gingivitis causes mild symptoms like gum tenderness, swelling, redness, and bleeding. Left to progress, gingivitis advances into the bone support of the tooth and causes deep periodontal pockets between teeth and gums. These “deep pockets” harbor more unwanted bacteria, more resistant bacteria, and calcified plaque (tartar), causing further damage.

Known as periodontitis, advanced gum disease damages the structures that support your teeth, including the gums and alveolar bone. This can lead to bony defects that allow loose teeth to eventually fall out.

How is gum disease treated?

Treating gum disease depends on the severity of the infection. Mild infection (gingivitis) is reversible with 1-2 dental cleanings and optimal oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing. Our team will recommend deep teeth cleaning for advanced gum disease, which uses the following procedures.

  • Scaling: This non-surgical procedure removes plaque and dental calculus from the surface of teeth and the depth of the periodontal pockets. These areas cannot be reached with regular brushing and flossing. Removing these harmful substances helps to reduce inflammation, reduce pocket depth, and prevent further damage to the gums and teeth-supporting bone structures.
  • Root planing: Polishing removes rough spots from the tooth surface to discourage plaque buildup. Planning also encourages reattachment of the gingival tissues to the teeth, reducing pocket depths and making your home care more effective to restore optimal oral health.

Gum disease treatment doesn’t need to be painful. Although deep teeth cleaning is non-surgical, we use modern pain management options for a pleasant dental experience. Our team uses powerful local anesthetics, but you can opt for sedation dental care if you are anxious about your procedure.

How can I prevent gum disease?

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Preventing gum disease helps avoid the need for uncomfortable and expensive treatments. But how do you keep your gums healthy? It’s easy! Observe the following preventive tips.

  • Brush and floss your teeth daily
  • Schedule an appointment with your dentist twice yearly for routine exams and cleanings
  • Quit smoking or vaping and tobacco products of any form
  • Eat a dental-friendly, balanced diet
  • Manage diabetes, depression, and other illnesses that can suppress your immunity

Are you ready for healthy gums?

From preventive care to targeted treatments, Pearls of Dentistry offers comprehensive periodontal care to ensure you achieve optimal gum health. Uncover the secrets to healthy gums by calling (858) 451-3110 to schedule an appointment with our dental team.