Periodontal Care

Sacramento, CA

Our Treatments

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is one of the most common causes of tooth loss in adults. That is why Dr. Chao and his dedicated team at Greenhaven Dental emphasize the importance of periodontal care. Keeping your gums healthy will help ensure you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a common yet often overlooked oral health issue. It typically develops when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, starts building up on the teeth, leading to inflammation and infection of the gums. If left untreated, the gum infection can progress and affect the structures supporting the teeth, leading to loose teeth and even tooth loss.

One of the main risk factors for periodontal disease is poor oral hygiene habits, which create an environment conducive to bacterial growth. Smoking, hormonal changes, a genetic predisposition, a compromised immune system, and certain medical conditions like diabetes further heighten the risk of developing gum disease.

We highly recommend maintaining good oral hygiene habits to lower the risk of gum disease. It is also important to keep up with your twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings, which allows us to detect and treat any concerns as they develop.

What Are the Common Signs of Periodontal Disease

Warning signs of gum disease may include the following:

Red, swollen, and tender gums that may bleed when you brush or floss
Pain when you bite or chew your food
Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
A receding gum line or teeth that look longer when you smile
Changes in how your teeth fit together
Loose teeth and tooth loss

What Are the Health Complications of Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is not confined to the gums. It has far-reaching consequences for both oral and overall health. The bacteria responsible for gum inflammation can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting various organs and systems. Research has linked periodontal disease to conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses. It can also complicate existing health problems and compromise the body's ability to fight infections.

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?

The main goal of periodontal therapy is to control the infection. The earlier the treatment, the better the outcomes. Gingivitis, the primary stage of gum disease, can often be reversed by professional cleanings and improved hygiene care at home. If the condition advances to periodontitis, it can never be fully reversed. However, treatment and maintenance can help prevent further damage to your gums and the structures supporting your teeth.

While periodontal care is fully customized to your unique needs and the severity of the condition, here is a look at what you can expect:

Scaling and Root Planing: This deep cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth and below your gum line. Next, we clean and smooth your tooth-root surfaces, reducing inflammation and promoting gum tissue reattachment and healing.
Antibiotic Rinses: In some cases, we may recommend antibiotic rinses to debride the periodontal pockets. Our antibiotic rinses specifically target and eliminate gum disease-causing bacteria right at their source, promoting gum healing.
Laser Treatment: We recommend laser therapy to further enhance your treatment outcomes. Our soft tissue laser helps eliminate harmful bacteria, decontaminating the gingival pockets, and lowering the risk of inflammation, gum recession, and tooth loss.
Periodontal Maintenance: We usually recommend periodontal maintenance visits every 3-4 months after treatment. Your appointments may involve professional cleanings, thorough evaluations of your gum health, measuring your periodontal pockets, and intervening whenever needed to maintain your gum health.