Protect your Oral Health with Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease is the most common cause of tooth loss among adults. It can infiltrate surrounding bone and tissue and decimate your oral health. At Freedom Dental in Fairfield, California, Cheng Zhu, DMD, has extensive experience diagnosing and treating gum disease and providing treatments to preserve your oral health. Call Freedom Dental at (707) 416-0626 to set up an appointment, or use the online booking tool to schedule a consultation today.

Gum Disease Q & A

What is gum disease?

Gum or periodontal disease is diagnosed when bacteria invade the structures around your teeth, including your gums, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone.

With time, your diseased gums negatively affect the structure of your teeth and even the supporting jawbone. Gum disease can also lead to full-body inflammation, contributing to serious conditions like stroke, arthritis, and coronary artery disease.

When would I need treatment for gum disease?

If you notice any symptoms of gum disease, make an appointment at Freedom Dental to be evaluated and receive treatment before it becomes severe.

Symptoms of periodontal disease include:

Patient and Lady Doctor in Clinic
  • Bleeding gums, especially when brushing
  • Loose teeth
  • Receding gums
  • Sensitive teeth and gums
  • Bad breath
  • Swollen gums

Early treatment reduces the chances that you’ll lose teeth to gum disease or experience other negative health implications.

How is gum disease treated?

Early gum disease, or gingivitis, can be reversed with good oral hygiene at home. The team at Freedom Dental recommends you brush thoroughly twice per day with a soft brush, floss once or twice daily, and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash.

If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to moderate-to-severe gum disease.

If you have moderate periodontal gum disease, in-office treatments can help restore your gums and gum line. These treatments can also enhance your dental hygiene and the look of your smile by reversing some of the damage caused by periodontal disease.

You may benefit from deep cleanings or scaling and root planing to carefully clean the root surfaces and remove tartar and plaque from deep gum pockets. After these initial deep cleanings, you may need to schedule more frequent routine cleanings to ensure your gums don’t become reinfected. 

In severe cases of gum disease, Dr. Zhu may pull back the gum tissue, remove the disease-causing bacteria, and secure the tissue back in place. In some cases, he may use bone grafts or tissue-stimulating proteins to encourage your body’s natural ability to regenerate tissue and bone.

If you’re concerned about gum disease, call Freedom Dental at (707) 416-0626 to schedule an appointment or use the online booking tool today.