Gum Disease

Did you know that a high percentage (50% or more!) of Americans have some form of periodontal disease, also called gum disease? It is far more prevalent than most people realize. Too many people do not take periodontal disease seriously, causing it to be the number one reason for tooth loss in adults.

At The Lodi Dentist, our dental team takes steps to prevent gum disease, catch and treat any symptoms of the problem as soon as possible—before it can progress to harmful levels. If you have bleeding gums or soreness in your mouth, call our team right away for effective periodontal treatment for all levels of gum disease.

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a woman with her finger in her mouth

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused by bacteria that have gathered in your mouth, which can negatively impact your dental health. It can manifest itself in rather simple symptoms, such as having bad breath or occasional bleeding gums when brushing and flossing.

Left untreated, periodontal disease can progress until it causes your gums to recede, loosening your teeth and even leading to missing teeth. Yes, it can be that serious.

There is also some rather substantial evidence that your mouth can determine good total body health (or the lack of it) in general. What goes into your mouth leads to what goes into the rest of your body. That, too, is a compelling reason why having good oral health is important.

Our dedicated team is here to help you! We are located in Lodi, CA, and serve the Stockton and Galt areas as well.

What Are the Stages of Gum Disease?

There are two main stages of gum disease. Gingivitis is the early stage and is characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed during brushing. Periodontitis is the advanced stage where the infection affects the bone and tissue supporting the teeth.

What Causes Gum Disease?

The primary cause of gum disease is plaque buildup due to poor oral hygiene and lax flossing habits. Other factors include:

  • Medications that Reduce Saliva Flow
  • Smoking
  • Hormonal Changes
  • Genetics
  • Certain Medical Conditions (like Diabetes)

What Are Some Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can present with a variety of symptoms. Early detection is key to managing this condition effectively. Here are some common signs that could indicate the presence of periodontal disease:

Bleeding Gums

Often the first noticeable symptom, gums bleeding when brushing or flossing may occur even without pain, making it easy to overlook. However, this can be an early warning sign that should be addressed.

Red, Swollen, or Warm Gums

Inflamed gums that appear red, swollen, or feel warm may be a sign of gum disease, though other factors can also cause these symptoms.

Persistent Bad Breath or Bad Taste

If you experience chronic bad breath or a lingering bad taste that doesn’t go away after brushing, flossing, or using mouthwash, it may be a sign of gum infection. Bacteria that build up beneath the gumline can release odors and toxins, causing unpleasant breath and taste changes.

Addressing these symptoms early helps prevent the infection from progressing and protects both your gums and the bone that supports your teeth.

Receding Gums

Have you noticed your gums pulling away from your teeth or your teeth appearing longer than before? Gum recession can indicate underlying gum disease.

When bacteria and plaque collect at the gumline, they can irritate and damage the tissue, causing it to recede over time. Left untreated, this can expose tooth roots, increase sensitivity, and compromise tooth stability.

Loose or Shifting Teeth

Teeth that feel loose, shift, or no longer fit together properly when biting down can be a more advanced sign of periodontal disease.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with one of our dental professionals at The Lodi Dentist, near Galt and Stockton. Early intervention can prevent further progression of periodontal disease and protect your oral health.

Dangers of Not Treating Gum Disease

Now that you know what to look out for, the next step is to get treatment. Many people put off all sorts of treatment for various reasons, but there is a downside to waiting for gum disease treatment.

Gum disease may start quietly, often without noticeable pain. But if left untreated, it can lead to serious consequences for your oral and overall health, such as:

  • Tooth Loss | Advanced gum disease can destroy the bone and tissue that support your teeth, ultimately leading to loose teeth or tooth loss.
  • Bad Breath and Discomfort | Persistent gum inflammation often causes chronic bad breath, swollen gums, and tenderness that can make eating uncomfortable.
  • Heart and Health Risks | Research links untreated gum disease to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke due to chronic inflammation.
  • Diminished Overall Well-Being | Gum disease can affect nutrition, self-confidence, and quality of life, as pain and tooth loss make daily activities more difficult.

Preventing gum disease or catching it early can save you from these complications. At The Lodi Dentist, we focus on comprehensive care, including regular checkups, cleanings, and advanced diagnostics to detect issues before they become serious.

Find the Best Gum Disease Treatment for You

Our dentists will perform a thorough examination, checking for signs of inflammation, measuring gum pocket depths, and possibly taking X-rays to assess bone loss. If you are diagnosed with gum disease, don’t worry, one of the best periodontal disease treatment systems is right at your fingertips.

Better Home Hygiene

Brushing for at least three minutes twice a day, flossing once per day, and finishing with a rinse of a trusted anti-gingival mouthwash is an excellent gum disease treatment that can make a huge difference in your oral health.

Your dentist can also offer you gum disease treatment with regular cleanings. If your gum disease is more advanced, there are several other gum disease treatment options that can help you once again gain good dental health.

Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)

When gum disease develops beneath the surface, regular cleanings are no longer enough to remove bacteria and plaque buildup. Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical treatment that targets these deeper areas.

During this procedure, plaque and tartar are carefully removed from below the gumline, and the tooth roots are smoothed to help the gums reattach more securely. This process reduces inflammation, promotes healing, and creates a healthier foundation for your smile.

Medications

In some cases, gum disease may require additional antimicrobial support. Your dentist may recommend antibiotics, either taken orally, placed directly under the gums, or in gel form. This is designed to target lingering bacteria and control infection.

Medicated rinses or localized treatments can also be used to reduce inflammation and speed up recovery. These therapies are often used alongside deep cleaning to enhance results and protect against reinfection.

Surgical Treatments

For advanced periodontal disease, surgical treatment may be the most effective way to restore gum and bone health. Procedures such as flap surgery can lift the gums for a more thorough cleaning and reduce deep pockets where bacteria collect.

If bone loss has occurred, bone grafting or guided tissue regeneration can help rebuild the jaw’s foundation and support the teeth.

Ongoing Care

After gum disease treatment, consistent care is key to maintaining results. Regular dental visits allow your dentist to monitor healing, perform maintenance cleanings, and prevent any recurrence of infection.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

Preventing gum disease is largely in your hands. Here are some effective strategies for preventing gum disease:

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Brush and floss your teeth daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.

Attend Regular Dental Checkups

Schedule a routine visit with us for professional cleanings and exams. Early detection is key to preventing gum disease.

Eat a Balanced Diet

A healthy diet helps support oral health and protect the gums.
Quit Smoking | If you use tobacco, seek support to quit. This can significantly improve your gum health.

Quit Smoking

If you use tobacco, seek support to quit. This can significantly improve your gum health.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated to help keep bacteria from your mouth, especially after eating.

Why Patients in Lodi, CA, Trust The Lodi Dentist

We understand that gum health isn’t just about your teeth, it’s about your whole body. With decades of experience, Dr. Neal and our team are known in the Lodi community for providing thorough, compassionate care that addresses each patient’s unique needs.

Using tools like digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and Piezo perio scalers, we can accurately assess gum health and create tailored treatment plans. Whether it’s a deep cleaning, periodontal therapy, or ongoing maintenance, our goal is to preserve your natural teeth, protect your smile, and enhance your overall well-being.

Patient Reviews

Our patients’ experiences reflect the difference that thoughtful, expert care can make. Those who have trusted us with their gum health often share stories of improved comfort, confidence, and long-term oral health.

FAQs About Gum Disease Treatment

We know that gum disease can be confusing or even intimidating. Our goal is to provide clear answers so you can feel confident about your care.

Will treatment improve my overall health?

Yes. Healthy gums help reduce inflammation and support your teeth, contributing to better heart health, lower risk of diabetes complications, and improved quality of life.

Can gum disease be reversed?

Gingivitis can often be reversed with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits. However, periodontitis requires more intensive treatment, and while it can be managed, the damage caused may not be completely reversible.

How often should I get my gums checked?

Most patients benefit from a dental checkup every six months, but if you have gum disease or risk factors, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

Does gum disease hurt?

Not always. Early stages may have little to no pain, which is why regular exams are important. Advanced gum disease can cause tenderness, bleeding, and discomfort when chewing.

Is gum disease hereditary?

Genetics can play a role. If your family has a history of gum disease, you may be more susceptible, making early detection and preventive care crucial.

Enjoy Healthy Gums Every Day

If you have any concerns about gum disease, call today. Our experienced team is here to provide personalized care and support your oral health needs. For those who are in Galt or Stockton, CA, we are just a short distance away in Lodi. We hope to see you soon.

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