Do you ever notice a bit of pink in the sink when you brush your teeth? Do your gums feel tender, swollen, or look redder than usual? While common, these are not normal—they are the earliest warning signs of gum disease.
Your gums are the essential foundation that supports your teeth. When this foundation is compromised, it puts your entire smile at risk. At Crown Dental Group, we specialize in periodontal treatment in National City, CA, to halt gum disease in its tracks and restore your oral health. This guide will help you understand what gum disease is, how to spot it, and how we treat it.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums and bone that surround your teeth. It’s a progressive condition that, if left untreated, can lead to gum recession, tooth loss, and even impact your overall health.
It all starts with plaque—a sticky, invisible film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If not removed by daily brushing and flossing, this plaque hardens into tartar (or calculus). Tartar cannot be removed at home and must be professionally cleaned.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis: This is the earliest, mildest, and only reversible stage of gum disease. The bacteria in plaque and tartar irritate the gums, making them red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. At this stage, no bone has been lost.
Periodontitis: If gingivitis is not treated, it progresses to periodontitis. The irritation causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming small spaces called "pockets." These pockets collect more bacteria, which then attack the bone that holds your teeth in place. This can lead to permanent bone loss, loose teeth, and eventually, tooth extraction.
Do I Need Periodontal Treatment? Signs to Watch For
Gum disease can be sneaky. You may not feel any pain until the disease is in its advanced stages. It's crucial to see your dentist if you notice any of these symptoms:
Bleeding gums (especially when brushing or flossing)
Red, swollen, or tender gums
Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
Receding gums (your teeth look longer)
Pus between your teeth and gums
Loose teeth or a change in your bite
Pain or discomfort when chewing
If you're experiencing any of these, schedule an examination at our National City office right away. Early detection is key.
Our Approach to Periodontal Treatment
When you come to Crown Dental Group, we first perform a comprehensive periodontal exam. We will gently measure the space between your teeth and gums (the "pockets") to determine the stage and severity of the disease. Based on this, we will create a customized treatment plan.
Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
For most patients with early-to-moderate gum disease, the gold standard treatment is a "deep cleaning," known as scaling and root planing. This is different from a regular cleaning.
Scaling: We carefully remove all the plaque and hardened tartar from below the gumline, all the way down to the bottom of the pocket.
Root Planing: After scaling, we gently smooth the tooth's root surfaces. This smoothing helps prevent new bacteria from sticking and allows your gums to heal and reattach to the clean root surface.
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This procedure is typically done over one or two visits, and we will numb the area to ensure you are completely comfortable.
Periodontal Maintenance
It’s important to understand that periodontitis is a chronic condition, much like diabetes. It cannot be "cured," but it can be managed successfully. After your deep cleaning, we will place you on a periodontal maintenance schedule. This means you'll come in for cleanings more frequently (usually every 3-4 months) so we can keep the deep pockets clean and prevent the disease from returning.
Why You Can't Afford to Ignore Gum Disease
Treating gum disease isn't just about saving your teeth—it's about protecting your entire body. The bacteria from a gum infection can enter your bloodstream and have been linked to serious systemic health problems, including:
Heart disease and stroke
Diabetes complications
Respiratory infections
Pregnancy complications
Protecting your gums is a critical part of protecting your overall health.
Protect Your Smile's Foundation in National City
At Crown Dental Group, our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, effective care to stop gum disease and help you maintain a healthy smile for life. From our gentle deep cleanings to our dedicated maintenance program, we are your partners in gum health.
Don't wait until a minor issue becomes a major problem. If you have any concerns about your gums, we are here to help.
To learn more about our specific services or to schedule your consultation for periodontal treatment in National City, CA, please visit our main page or call our office today.
Learn more about our Periodontal Treatment Program.
