Are you suffering from periodontal disease? Gum disease is an infection caused by bacteria in the mouth that can cause gum redness and inflammation, while leaving your oral health (and total-body health) susceptible to additional symptoms and conditions.
Patients from across Sunnyvale, CA and beyond visit us at Derek H. Tang, DDS, for gentle, precise periodontal care. Our team understands the potential severity of periodontal disease, and will work with you directly to restore your healthy smile. With top technologies, effective prevention, and state-of-the-art solutions, Dr. Tang is proud to offer top periodontal disease treatment in Sunnyvale, CA and beyond!
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection caused by bacteria in the mouth that can grow and flourish, resulting in the gums becoming red red and inflamed, with bleeding and bad breath as the most common symptoms. Without treatment, gum disease can progress into the later stages of periodontitis, which can result in the loss of hard and soft tissues with time.
What Is Gum Disease?
Do you know the signs of gum disease? Gum disease is a general term for a buildup of bacteria and inflammation of the gum line. Typically, gum disease can be caused by poor oral care routines, skipping dental appointments, genetics, advanced age, or chronic illness. If your gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to other complications, including diabetes and heart disease.
Common symptoms of gum disease include the following:
- Redness or swelling in the gums
- Bleeding gums that are sensitive to hot or cold foods/drinks
- Teeth that are loose or shifting out of place
- Bad breath that doesn't go away after brushing teeth, an indication of decay
Symptoms Of Gum Disease
Gum disease is not always apparent to those experiencing its earliest phases, so attending regular dental checkups our Sunnyvale dental office is essential. If you have one or more symptoms, it's time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tang.
Gum disease can cause a host of problems, including tooth and mouth pain, loose teeth, receding gums, swollen gums, bleeding while brushing and flossing, mouth sores, bad breath, pus between teeth, ill-fitting dentures, and a change in your bite.
What Treatments are Available for Periodontal Disease?
We offer a selection of periodontal treatments for managing gum disease, including:
- Deep cleaning – patients with the earliest stage of periodontal disease called gingivitis can treat this condition as soon as it develops to avoid the progression of gum disease. A deep cleaning is done in the dental office, and patients may need to return every few months to repeat until the condition has been controlled.
- Scaling and root planing – later stages require the dental hygienist to get deep into the smile to clean the roots of the teeth, with a targeted cleaning that needs to be done to reverse periodontal disease.
At Derek H. Tang, DDS, our team also focuses much of our energy on preventive care, protecting the teeth and gums and ensuring they stay healthy between appointments.
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
Scaling and root planing (SRP) are the most common procedures for treating gingivitis by deep cleaning below the gum line and smoothing the tooth's surface. Scaling and root planing remove plaque, bacteria, and acid buildup that can cause gum inflammation.
A simple SRP helps restore and promote healthier teeth, gums, and oral health while preventing all stages of gum disease.
Antibiotics
You may also be prescribed with antibiotics to control your periodontal condition from the inside out!
Advanced Periodontal Care For Healthier Smiles
Dr. Tang takes a gentle, customized approach to periodontal care. If you suspect your gums may need expert attention, call Derek H. Tang, DDS today!