Gum Disease Treatment in Torrance, CA

Gingivitis is the first, most common, and least serious form of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen, tender gums that are prone to easy bleeding; some professional dental attention along with diligent brushing and flossing is usually enough to address it. Periodontitis is a more serious form, often caused by gingivitis that is ignored, which weakens the gums and can lead to loose teeth that move around in the gums and, eventually, a loss of teeth. Symptoms of gum disease include persistent bad breath after brushing or using mouthwash, bleeding gums, receding gums that make your mouth look toothier than before, pain or tenderness, and loose teeth. Gum disease can result from consistent breathing through the mouth, regular smoking, increased hormonal activity during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, and poor oral hygiene. A periodontist is a dentist who has gone beyond the basic education with three additional years of study, qualifying them to work with implants and perform cosmetic procedures such as gum lifts.

• Treatment for both gingivitis and periodontitis
• Root planing to remove tartar above and below the gumline
• Flap surgery for more severe periodontal cases
• Care for symptoms like bleeding and receding gums
• Helps prevent tooth loss and protect overall health

Gum disease can lead to a more severe version known as periodontitis, which can have a snowball effect, weakening the gums and leading to a loss of teeth. Periodontitis, if left untreated, can go beyond the mouth and send its bacteria throughout the rest of your bloodstream, and there have even been studies that indicate a link to heart disease. Halitosis, or bad breath, can be another symptom of gum disease, and cosmetic mouthwashes can only hide it for short periods, which is why professional treatment matters.

Treatment often begins with root planing, a very thorough removal of tartar both above and below the gum line. For more severe cases, flap surgery may be required, which calls for lifting the gums away from the teeth to get at all the plaque and tartar that has formed underneath. Contact Torrance Dental Center to schedule a periodontal evaluation and protect your gum health.