Healthy gums are essential because they support your teeth and oral function—similarly to how healthy ligaments are necessary to bone function or how your ribs protect and support internal organs. Additionally, unhealthy gums have been linked to severe health complications.
Your Woodland Hills dentist provides preventive dentistry to help ensure gum health but also treatment if you present with gum disease (periodontal disease) or gingivitis.
About Gum Disease
Gum disease is an advanced form of gingivitis. In the gingivitis stage, your dentist can reverse gum disease and restore your oral health. However, the condition is only manageable when gingivitis advances to gum disease. In other words, your dentist can help lower your risks for the severe consequences associated with untreated gum disease, including:
- Heart health complications
- Lung health complications
- Premature birth or low birth weight
- Studies also link gum disease to Alzheimer’s and autoimmune arthritis.
Fortunately, gum disease is mostly preventable with healthy habits.
For example:
- You should see the dentist every six months for checkups and professional teeth cleanings.
- You should be brushing your teeth after eating or at least twice daily.
- If you use tobacco in any form, we recommend quitting as it promotes gum disease.
- You should always report oral health changes to your dentist.
Gum disease symptoms include loose teeth, bleeding gums, recurring bad breath, and gum inflammation.
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Woodland Hills
We always customize your periodontal treatment because care protocols should address your specific level of disease.
Examples of treatment may include:
- Adjustments to your at-home oral hygiene routine
- Specialized teeth cleanings in our dental office
- Topical antibiotics or other medications
Your dentist will go over the options with you, explaining the merits of each treatment.
Gum Disease Treatment Near Me
If you have been diagnosed with gum disease or suspect gingivitis, we encourage you to contact our compassionate dental team for an assessment as soon as possible. Together, we can work to save your smile and restore your confidence.