We “grow” healthy smiles and offer proactive gum disease treatment
Orange and Magnolia Dental Studio has cultivated close relationships with individuals and families in Costa Mesa, California and the surrounding area. We maintain strong bonds with our patients through their routine visits to our studio, located unforgettably at the intersection of Orange Avenue and Magnolia Street. These frequent visits are also sweet; they are a cornerstone of preventive dentistry. Regular check-ups (exams) and professional cleanings by our skilled hygienists prevent the two leading causes of tooth loss: tooth decay and gum disease.
Toothy troubles: Gum disease
Bacteria are naturally present in your mouth. These bacteria feed off the food debris left behind when you don’t brush or floss consistently and thoroughly. Bacteria and food particles promote the development of sticky plaque. As plaque builds up, it releases toxins that inflame the periodontal tissue (gums) and erode the teeth.
Early-stage gum inflammation or disease is known as “gingivitis.” Dr. Joyce Kahng uses her considerable knowledge and diagnostic technologies to pinpoint gum problems in their earliest stages when you can halt the disease process and reverse its destructive effects.
Later-stage gum disease is known as periodontitis. If left untreated, advanced gum disease can break down the healthy attachments between the teeth and gums. Periodontitis can erode at both the soft and hard tissues.
Tailored treatment
Generally, treatments to resolve gum disease in its earliest stages are less invasive. All that may be necessary to restore the health of this supportive tissue is modifications to hygiene at home or oral care products. Additionally, we may recommend a nonsurgical process or “deep cleaning” known as scaling and root planing. Periodontal trays may be customized to your mouth. When worn as directed, the trays deliver powerful medication to eradicate bacteria and promote healing. For more advanced stages of gum disease, Dr. Kahng may recommend surgical or regenerative techniques such as laser pocket reduction and gum grafting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Disease
Is gum disease painful?
Not always. Early gum disease (gingivitis) often has no pain. You may notice bleeding when brushing or flossing, or mild swelling. As it progresses, discomfort, tenderness, and bad breath can develop. Advanced stages can cause pain when chewing. However, for the most part, gum disease is painless, which is why it progresses without being realized.
How does gum disease cause tooth loss?
Early-stage gum disease is only at the surface. However, if left unchecked, gum disease attacks the tissues and bone that support your teeth. Over time, bone loss weakens the foundation, leading to loose teeth that eventually fall out.
Is gum disease hereditary?
According to the ADA, genetics is a small risk factor for gum disease. If a family member has periodontal disease, you may be more prone to inflammation and infection. However, daily habits matter more. Good brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits can greatly reduce your risk, even if it runs in your family.
Does smoking cause gum disease?
You already know that smoking raises the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory illnesses. However, what is less discussed is how tobacco increases the risk of periodontal disease. Individuals who smoke are two times more prone to developing gum disease than those who do not smoke. Tobacco diminishes blood circulation to the gums and impairs your immune system’s ability to respond. This makes it easier for an infection to start and harder for your body to heal. Smokers also respond less favorably to treatment.
Does pregnancy cause gum disease?
Nearly 75% of pregnant women face gum problems at some point. However, pregnancy doesn’t cause gum disease by itself, but it can increase the risk. Hormonal changes make gums more sensitive to plaque. This can lead to pregnancy gingivitis, where gums become inflamed, swollen, and bleed easily. Good oral care and professional cleanings are especially important during this time.
What are the treatment options for periodontal disease?
Treatment depends on severity. We can reverse early stages with professional cleanings and diligent home care. Deeper infections often require scaling and root planing to clean below the gumline. Advanced cases may involve laser therapy or surgery to reduce pockets and restore support.
How long will it take to recover from gum disease treatment?
Your timeline depends on the procedure needed and your response to treatment. Initial healing after a deep cleaning usually takes a few days to a week. Gums continue to improve over several weeks. Recovering from surgical procedures, such as pocket reduction surgery, usually takes longer. Ongoing maintenance visits are key to keeping the disease under control.
Does mouthwash help with gum disease?
Mouthwash can help, but it’s not a cure. Antibacterial rinses reduce bacterial load in the mouth and freshen your breath. They work best alongside brushing, flossing, and professional care.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Here are simple steps you can take at home to maintain healthy gums.
- Brush and floss your teeth diligently
- Adopt a nutritious eating plan and reduce the consumption of sugary foods and beverages.
- Quit smoking and other tobacco products
- Consider using an alcohol-free, antibacterial mouth rinse
- Put immune-suppressing conditions like diabetes under control
Where can I get gum disease treatment in Costa Mesa, CA?
Your healthy gums are as important as your teeth. Do you suspect gum disease? Dial (949) 867-4346 and schedule an appointment with Orange and Magnolia Dental Studio. We offer comprehensive periodontal care to keep your gums as healthy as possible.
Do not wait for bleeding when brushing, swelling, pain, or other potentially troublesome symptoms to arise. We encourage you to contact us to get into a healthy, proactive habit that supports your periodontal and dental health. Please schedule your appointment by calling us at (949) 867-4346.
Gum Disease
The 3 stages of gum disease are gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Gingivitis is caused by toxins irritating the gum line as a result of plaque buildup. Signs and symptoms of gingivitis includes swelling, sensitivity, and bleeding of the gums during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis can be easily reversed through professional care and good home oral hygiene. Periodontitis is categorized by irreversible bone loss that results from untreated gingivitis. The gums may begin to form a pocket below the gum line which traps food and plaque. Dental treatment and home care can help prevent from further damage, but at this stage, the results are not reversible. Advanced periodontitis is when the fibers and bones supporting the teeth destroyed. This may cause teeth to shift or loosen. Teeth may have to be removed depending on how advanced the disease has become and if treatments are not effective. You can begin by preventing gum disease with good oral health. Pick up a brochure or ask your dentist today.
