When your gums start bleeding during brushing or feel tender to the touch, it’s likely your mouth’s way of waving a red flag that something isn’t quite right and needs attention. The good news is that gum problems caught early can often be turned around with the right care, preventing more serious and costly issues down the road.
At Newport Beach Dental Center, we understand how concerning gum problems can be, and we’re here to help you get your oral health back on track. Dr. Laura Sharbash and our team provide comprehensive gum disease treatment using the latest techniques to restore your gums to optimal health.
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, targets the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 42.2% of adults 30 years or older in the United States have some form of periodontitis. It manifests in its earliest form as gingivitis, where your gums become red, swollen, and may bleed easily. If left untreated, it can develop into moderate or severe periodontitis, a more serious condition where the infection spreads deeper, potentially damaging the bone that supports your teeth.
The primary culprit behind gum disease is plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria that steadily grows on your teeth. When plaque isn’t removed through regular oral hygiene, it strengthens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. This buildup irritates your gums, leading to inflammation and infection.
Several factors can enhance your risk of developing gum disease, including:
Understanding these factors can help you take active steps to protect your gum health and, in turn, your overall health and well-being.
Recognizing the initial warning signs of gum disease can significantly impact your treatment outcome and determine whether the damage caused can be reversed. Healthy gums should be solid to the touch, not red or swollen. If you notice persistent bad breath, gums that bleed when you brush or floss, or teeth that feel loose, these may be signs that you need professional periodontal care.
Gum disease often progresses silently, so paying attention to subtle changes in your mouth is vital. You might spot your gums pulling away from your teeth, creating pockets where food and bacteria can collect. Some people experience changes in their bite or the way their teeth fit together when they close their mouth.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait to contact us at Newport Beach Dental Care. Early intervention can prevent the need for more complex procedures later. Regular dental checkups help identify problems before they become serious, saving you time, discomfort, and money in the long run.
At Newport Beach Dental Center, we tailor our periodontal treatment approach to each patient’s specific needs. For early-stage gum disease, we may recommend more frequent professional cleanings combined with improved home care routines. We’ll work with you to develop brushing and flossing techniques that effectively remove plaque and maintain your gum health.
For more advanced cases, we offer scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning. This procedure eliminates plaque and tartar from beneath the gums and polishes the tooth roots to help your gums reattach to your teeth. The treatment is typically performed with local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the process.
Our general dentistry services include ongoing periodontal maintenance to help hinder the recurrence of gum disease. We’ll create an individualized maintenance schedule based on your individual needs, helping you maintain the healthy gums you’ve worked hard to achieve.
Prevention remains the best approach to sustaining healthy gums. We’ll provide you with personalized guidance on proper brushing techniques, floss selection, and other oral hygiene tools that may benefit your specific situation. Some patients benefit from antimicrobial mouth rinses or specialized toothpastes designed for sensitive gums.
Your lifestyle choices also play a substantial role in gum health. If you use tobacco products, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your gums and overall oral health. We can provide resources and support to help you through this process.
Regular professional cleanings and checkups allow us to oversee your gum health and catch any issues early. During these visits, we can remove plaque and tartar buildup that standard brushing and flossing might miss, keeping your gums in optimal condition.
Don’t let gum problems compromise your oral health or confidence in your smile. Dr. Laura Sharbash brings extensive training and experience to periodontal care, including her fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry and her commitment to staying current with the latest treatment techniques. Our team creates a comfortable and inclusive environment where you can feel safe in receiving the care you need.
We understand that dental anxiety is real, and we work hard to make every visit as pleasant as possible. From the moment you walk through our doors, our goal is to help you feel comfortable and informed about your treatment options. Call us at (949) 760-9212 or request an appointment to take the first step toward healthier gums and a more confident smile.
