3609 Jamison Way Castro Valley, CA 94546
Healthy Gums Are The Foundation Of A Healthy Mouth in Castro Valley, CA
Regular cleanings are essential to maintain the health of your gums. Without consistent, professional cleaning appointments, plaque and calculus (tartar) can build up, causing bone loss and inflammation in your gums. This can, in turn, lead to premature tooth loss.
Over 50% of Americans have some form of periodontitis (“gum disease”). The good news is that there are several treatment options available to help treat this disease.
Symptoms
Bleeding gums – bleeding gums are a sign of dental infection
Bad breath – built up bacteria can lead to bad breath (“halitosis”)
Red or swollen gums
Gum recession – your teeth may look longer than they used to or if you may notice some root exposure
Tooth sensitivity – if your roots are exposed you can experience increased sensitivity to temperature or sweets
Periodontal abscess – bacteria can become entrapped in the periodontal pocket, causing the area to fill with pus and become uncomfortable and swollen
Loose teeth – advanced bone loss can cause your teeth to loosen
Treatment
The first thing we do is review effective oral hygiene techniques and discuss ways you can improve your current home care routine. Next, we mechanically remove the bacteria, plaque, and tartar that has built up on your teeth’s root surfaces. This process is called scaling and root planning (SRP) and is done with a combination of hand instruments and an ultrasonic (a high-frequency vibrating instrument). Occasionally, we then apply antimicrobial products and/or antibiotics to the affected areas in order to assist your body in healing those deep pockets and to help avoid the need for periodontal surgery.