If you’ve recently been diagnosed with periodontal gum disease or are at risk of developing this condition, it’s important that you’re aware of your gum treatment options that will help keep the disease from progressing. Our gum treatment can be surgical or non-surgical in nature, which largely depends on the extent of your gum disease. This guide takes a more in-depth look at gum treatment in West Hollywood.

What Is Periodontal Gum Disease?

Periodontal gum disease refers to a kind of disease wherein the gum tissues have been severely damaged to the point where the bones are also adversely affected. This condition is largely preventable but can lead to tooth loss and further risk for certain lung and heart diseases. Gum treatment for this condition typically involves cleaning the pockets surrounding the teeth but could require surgery in some advanced cases. There are various stages of periodontal gum disease, which means that you may be able to avoid some of the more invasive types of gum treatment.

Causes of This Condition

The main cause associated with periodontal gum disease is the buildup of plaque on the outer portion of the teeth, which develops when bacteria remains on the teeth for a lengthy period of time without being cleaned. When too much plaque develops on the teeth, the surrounding gums can become inflamed and reddened. Over time, these issues can spread to the lower jawbone. If you don’t practice good oral hygiene, it’s likely that you will be at risk for this disease. The best way to prevent the development of this condition and further gum treatment is to brush your teeth twice every day and floss daily. You should also avoid foods and beverages with large amounts of sugar in them.

Symptoms to Look Out For?

The signs and symptoms attributed to periodontal gum disease depend on which stage you’re suffering from. Certain symptoms may indicate the need for gum treatment. In most cases, gum disease won’t display many symptoms until it’s reached a severe stage. The main signs of periodontal gum disease include poor breath that doesn’t go away, high amounts of tooth sensitivity, swollen gums, bleeding gums, painful chewing, and loosened teeth. The presence of any of these symptoms means that gum treatment is likely necessary.

Stages of Gum Disease

There are three main stages of periodontal gum disease. If you obtain gum treatment during the first stage, it’s likely that you’ll be able to avoid further issues. The first stage of gum disease is referred to as gingivitis, which is caused primarily by the initial accumulation of plaque. This plaque will eventually turn into harder tartar, which will release bacteria that causes problems with the health of your teeth and gums. The gums will also become swollen. Gum treatment can reverse these problems before they worsen. The second stage is called periodontitis, which occurs when pockets form and the gums pull away from your teeth. If you don’t obtain gum treatment at this stage, the tissues of your teeth will be severely damaged within the third stage, which will also be accompanied by the loosening of teeth and the deterioration of the jaw bone.

Possible Gum Treatments to Consider in Los Angeles

There are an array of gum treatments available for periodontal gum disease, which extend from medications to surgery. Your teeth will also receive an extensive dental cleaning to remove some of the built-up plaque. Practicing good oral hygiene should reverse some of the issues as well. If these remedies prove to be ineffective and the disease has advanced to a severe stage, the main surgical procedures include flap surgery and bone and tissue grafts, both of which have proven to be highly effective.

In the event that the health and condition of your gums are beginning to worsen, it’s important that you seek treatment as soon as possible. Call our West Hollywood dentist today to schedule your free dental consultation.