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Gum Disease Treatment

Dr. Wali Hamidy provides periodontal therapy in La Jolla, California, to help fight gum disease and improve your oral health. Our dentist will check for signs of gum disease during your regular dental exams, and, if diagnosed, will work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your needs. Call La Jolla Dental Image today at (858) 202-0481 to set up an appointment and learn more about how periodontal therapy can benefit you!

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a degenerative condition primarily caused by bacteria found in plaque. The bacteria inflame and infect the gum tissues, and when left untreated, the gums can eventually begin to pull away from the teeth. Untreated periodontal disease can result in bone loss, tooth loss and gum tissue recession.

If your gums are swollen, red or tender, or if your gums bleed easily, you may have periodontal disease. Other common symptoms of gum disease include loose teeth, painful chewing, persistent bad breath and receding gums that make your teeth appear longer than normal. Following an exam at our office, our dentist and team will be able to determine whether you suffer from periodontal disease.

The treatment for gum disease is based upon your specific needs. Depending on the severity of the condition, our dentist may recommend additional professional dental cleanings, improved at-home oral hygiene, antibiotic treatment, scaling and root planing (deep cleanings), or gum surgery. We strive to help you restore your oral health and halt the progress of the disease. For more information on periodontal treatment, we welcome you to call or visit our office soon. We look forward to caring for your smile!

At La Jolla Dental Image, Dr. Wali Hamidy provides comprehensive gum disease treatment to help restore and maintain your oral health. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can affect the gum tissues and surrounding structures, leading to significant dental problems if left untreated. Early diagnosis is crucial, and Dr. Hamidy and his experienced team are dedicated to identifying the early signs of gum disease and offering effective treatments tailored to your needs.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease primarily results from the accumulation of bacteria in plaque, which inflames and infects the gum tissues. Plaque that is not regularly removed through brushing and flossing hardens into tartar, further irritating the gums. If the infection is left untreated, it can lead to more severe stages of periodontal disease, affecting the deeper structures around the teeth, including the bone. Gum disease has been linked to several health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, making it important to treat the infection early.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Common symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, receding gum lines, bad breath, and even loose teeth. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hamidy for an evaluation. Our team will carefully examine your gums and determine the depth of the infection using special instruments. An early diagnosis can help prevent the disease from progressing and decrease the risk of tooth loss in the future.

Gum Disease Treatment Options

Depending on the severity of your gum disease, several treatments are available:

Scaling and Root Planing (SRP): Also known as deep cleaning, SRP is a non-surgical procedure where Dr. Hamidy uses special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from beneath the gum line. The tooth roots are then smoothed to help the gums reattach and heal properly. SRP is often the first step in treating gum disease and is highly effective in controlling the infection.

Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, antibiotics may be used to eliminate any remaining bacteria after SRP. This can be a helpful addition to treatment to ensure the infection is fully addressed.

Gum Surgery: For more advanced stages of periodontal disease, gum surgery may be required to remove infected tissue and restore the health of your gums.

Maintaining Healthy Gums at Home

Preventing gum disease starts with excellent at-home care. Dr. Hamidy recommends brushing at least twice a day and flossing regularly to remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas. Proper oral hygiene practices, combined with regular dental cleanings, can significantly reduce your risk of developing gum disease in the future.

To learn more about gum disease treatments or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hamidy, contact La Jolla Dental Image today at (858) 202-0481. We’re here to help you maintain a healthy smile!