Gum Disease Treatment Specialist in San Diego, CA
Gum disease (periodontitis) treatment focuses on controlling infection and preventing further damage to the gums and supporting bone. It typically involves deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing, along with possible medication or surgery, to restore oral health and prevent tooth loss. Dr. Arthur Abordo offers periodontitis treatment at 3rd Avenue Complete Family Dental. For more information, contact us, or request an appointment online today! We are located at 3330 3rd Avenue, Suite 302, San Diego, CA 92103.
Table of Contents:
Can gum disease be cured?
Is gum disease reversible?
What is the cause of gum disease?
What does gum disease look like?
While gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a chronic condition that can’t be completely “cured” in the sense that it will never recur, it is treatable. With proper treatment, including professional cleaning, antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgery, it’s possible to halt the progression of the disease and restore the gums to a healthy state. This is achieved by removing the bacteria and toxins that cause inflammation and damage to the gums and bone, as well as addressing any underlying risk factors such as diabetes or smoking.
In addition to treatment, good oral hygiene habits, like daily and ongoing brushing and flossing will help prevent the disease from returning. Additionally, regular dental check-ups can help catch the disease at an early stage, reducing the possibility of complications and enhancing overall health outcomes. By taking a proactive approach to oral health care, individuals can effectively manage gum disease and maintain healthy teeth and gums for years to come.
While gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a chronic condition that can’t be completely “cured” in the sense that it will never recur, it is reversible to a certain extent. Reversibility refers to the ability to restore the gums to a healthy state by removing the underlying causes of the disease, such as bacteria and toxins.
In the earlier onset of gum disease, a reversal is often possible with proper treatment and good oral hygiene habits. In these cases, the gums can return to a healthy state and the risk of further damage can be minimized.
However, in more advanced cases of gum disease, reversibility may be limited. In these cases, the damage to the gums and bone may be irreversible, and treatment may focus on managing the symptoms rather than fully reversing the condition.
It’s important to note that even if gum disease is not fully reversible, early detection and treatment can still help prevent any more damage and enhance health outcomes.
Gum disease is a bacterial infection that is caused by a combination of factors. The main reason behind gum disease is the buildup of plaque which is a colorless film of bacteria that collects on the teeth and gums. Plaque contains bacteria that produce toxins that can damage the gums and bone that support the teeth. If plaque is not removed from regular brushing and flossing, it can get hard and turn into tartar, which is then removed by a dental professional. Over time, the toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque can cause inflammation and damage to the gums and bone, leading to gum disease. Other factors that can contribute to the development of gum disease include:
● Poor oral hygiene habits
● Genetic predisposition
● Smoking and tobacco use
● Diabetes
● Hormonal changes
● Poor diet
● Stress
In addition, some medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can have some added risks of developing gum disease.
Gum disease can manifest in various ways, depending on its severity and stage. Some of the common signs and symptoms are as follows:
● Redness and swelling: Your gums may become red, swollen, and tender to the touch.
● Bleeding: Gums may bleed when brushing or flossing, especially during the early stages of gum disease.
● Pus pockets: Deep pockets of pus may form between the gums and teeth, often accompanied by a foul odor.
● Loose teeth: Teeth may become loose or wobbly as the gum disease progresses.
● Bad breath: Gum disease can cause persistent bad breath or halitosis.
● Changes in gum color: Gums may become yellow, gray, or purple due to the accumulation of plaque and tartar.
● Gum recession: The gums could pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots.
● Pocketing: Spaces between the teeth and gums can form, allowing bacteria to accumulate and cause infection.
● Abscesses: Pus-filled abscesses can develop on the gums, often accompanied by pain and swelling.
In advanced stages of gum disease, you may notice:
● Bone loss: The jawbone can shrink or deteriorate due to chronic infection.
● Tooth loss: Teeth can become loose and eventually fall out if left untreated.
● Sinus infections: Gum disease can cause sinus infections and pain in the face and head.
● Generalized pain: Gum disease can cause general pain and discomfort in the mouth.
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, always consult your dentist for the correct diagnosis and treatment plan. For more information, contact us, or request an appointment online today! We are located at 3330 3rd Avenue, Suite 302, San Diego, CA 92103. We serve patients from San Diego, CA, Downtown San Diego CA, Hillcrest CA, Middletown CA, Mission Hills CA, Mission Valley CA, University Heights CA, North Park CA, and surrounding areas.
Additional Services You May Need
▸ Bone Grafting
▸ Cancer Screening
▸ Cavities and Fillings
▸ Cosmetic Dentistry
▸ Crown Lengthening
▸ Dental Bonding
▸ Dental Bridges
▸ Dental Cleaning
▸ Dental Crowns
▸ Dental Implants
▸ Dental Restoration
▸ Dental Scaling
▸ Dental Sealants
▸ Dentures
▸ Invisalign