Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal Treatment at Davidson Dental Group 

At Davidson Dental Group, we believe in providing our patients with comprehensive dental care that promotes long-term oral health. Led by Dr. Davidson, our practice serves San Leandro, Oakland, Castro Valley, and surrounding areas, offering expert general and cosmetic dentistry. One of the most important aspects of maintaining oral health is addressing periodontal (gum) disease, which can have serious consequences if left untreated.

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that affects the gums and the bone that supports your teeth. If not addressed in time, it can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and even impact your overall health. Fortunately, with modern treatments and professional care, periodontal disease can be managed and reversed.

What is Periodontal Disease? 

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support the teeth. It begins with the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on your teeth. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar and lead to inflammation and infection in the gums.

There are two main stages of periodontal disease:

• Gingivitis: This is the earliest stage of gum disease and involves inflammation and
  irritation of the gums. Gingivitis is usually reversible with improved oral hygiene. 
• Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it progresses to periodontitis, which involves
  deeper infection, damage to the bone structure, and potential tooth loss. This stage
  requires more intensive treatment.

Common Symptoms of Periodontal Disease 

You might have periodontal disease if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums – Especially when brushing or flossing. 
• Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
• Gum recession – Gums pulling away from the teeth, making teeth appear longer.
• Loose or shifting teeth – Teeth may begin to move due to bone loss and gum
  deterioration. 
• Painful chewing – Discomfort when chewing, possibly due to gum or bone damage.
• Pockets between the teeth and gums – Deep spaces that form between the teeth and
  gums as the disease progresses.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek treatment as soon as possible to
prevent further damage and maintain your overall health. 

Causes and Risk Factors of Periodontal Disease 

Periodontal disease is most commonly caused by poor oral hygiene, but there are several
factors that can increase your risk of developing gum disease: 

• Plaque and tartar buildup: Inadequate brushing and flossing allows plaque to build up,
  which hardens into tartar and leads to gum disease.
• Smoking and tobacco use: These habits are strongly associated with gum disease and
  can make it harder for gums to heal. 
• Genetics: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to periodontal disease.
• Age: The risk of gum disease increases as you age.
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and other hormonal changes can increase
  your risk.
• Certain medications: Medications like antihistamines and blood pressure medications
  can affect your oral health and increase your risk. 
• Medical conditions: Diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and other health issues can make
  it harder to fight infection and promote gum disease. 

How Periodontal Disease is Diagnosed

At Davidson Dental Group, diagnosing periodontal disease involves a thorough examination by
Dr. Davidson. This includes:

• Visual Exam: Dr. Davidson will visually examine your gums for signs of inflammation,
  recession, and infection.
• Probing: A periodontal probe will be used to measure the depth of the pockets between
  your teeth and gums. Deeper pockets indicate more severe gum disease.
• X-Rays: Dental X-rays may be taken to assess the extent of bone loss caused by
  periodontitis.

If gum disease is detected, Dr. Davidson will discuss your treatment options and help you choose the most effective course of action for your needs.

Periodontal Treatment Options

At Davidson Dental Group, we offer a range of effective periodontal treatments to restore your oral health. The treatment plan will depend on the severity of the gum disease and your unique needs.

• Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): This is often the first line of defense against gum disease. Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the roots of your teeth. This helps prevent bacteria from accumulating and promotes healing.
• Antibiotics: In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed in conjunction with scaling and root planing to help eliminate bacteria and reduce infection. This can be in the form of topical gels, oral antibiotics, or antimicrobial mouth rinses.
• Laser Therapy: For some patients, laser therapy may be an effective option for treating gum disease. The laser is used to remove infected tissue and stimulate healing in the gums, improving comfort and reducing the need for surgery. 
• Periodontal Surgery: In advanced cases of periodontal disease, surgical treatment may be required. Procedures such as flap surgery (where the gums are lifted to remove tartar) and bone grafts (to replace lost bone tissue) may be recommended to restore the health of the gums and jawbone.
• Maintenance and Aftercare: Once your treatment is complete, regular follow-up appointments and maintenance therapy will be necessary to keep your gums healthy. This includes professional cleanings, monitoring for signs of recurrence, and providing you with guidance on how to maintain good oral hygiene at home. 

Why Choose Davidson Dental Group for Periodontal Treatment? 

At Davidson Dental Group, we’re committed to providing the highest quality of care for our
patients. Here's why you should trust us with your periodontal treatment: 

• Expert Care from Dr. Davidson: Dr. Davidson is experienced in diagnosing and treating periodontal disease and offers personalized treatment options for each patient.
• Comprehensive Approach: We offer a wide range of treatments to address all stages of gum disease, from early-stage gingivitis to advanced periodontitis. 
• Cutting-Edge Technology: We use the latest dental technology, including laser therapy and digital X-rays, to provide effective and minimally invasive treatments.
• Comfort and Compassion: Our friendly, professional team is dedicated to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
• Convenient Location: Our practice is located in San Leandro, CA, and serves patients in Oakland, Castro Valley, and the surrounding areas.  

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you suspect you have gum disease or have noticed symptoms like bleeding gums or loose teeth, don’t wait—schedule an appointment today! Early treatment of periodontal disease can save your teeth and improve your overall health.

Call us at 341-222-3722 to schedule your consultation, or book online at your convenience.  Let Davidson Dental Group help you achieve healthy, beautiful gums and a confident smile.