Periodontal Treatments
Periodontal Treatment San Francisco
A study by the World Health Organization found that severe periodontal disease (gum disease) affects around 14% of the world’s adult population, representing more than one billion cases worldwide. The gums are the foundation for your teeth and play a vital role in your mouth’s overall oral health. When they become inflamed or infected, it can lead to periodontal disease, resulting in tooth loss.
At Post Street Dental, our team provides the best periodontal treatments in San Francisco. We understand that getting treatment for periodontal disease can be stressful. But you can rest easy knowing that we will give you a personalized treatment plan to fit your needs and help you each step of the way. To learn more about our periodontal treatments and to schedule a consultation, call (415) 986-4534 or fill out the online booking form.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss. If left untreated, gum disease can progress to a more serious form called periodontitis. Periodontitis is a chronic inflammation of the gum tissue that can destroy the bone and connective tissue that support your teeth.
What Causes Gum Disease?
The main cause of gum disease is the buildup of plaque, a film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Plaque is constantly forming on your teeth; if it’s not removed, it can harden into tartar. Tartar is much harder to remove and can only be removed by a professional cleaning. Once tartar builds up, it leads to inflammation of the gums, which can eventually lead to periodontitis.
Other factors that can increase your risk of gum disease include:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy)
- Family history
- Medications that cause dry mouth
What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
There are a few different symptoms of gum disease, including:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Gum recession and sensitive teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you must see a dentist immediately. They can diagnose gum disease and recommend the best treatment option for you.
What Are the Types of Gum Disease?
There are two main types of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. It is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. It is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional dental cleanings.
Periodontitis is the more advanced stage of gum disease. It is characterized by deep pockets of infection around the teeth. Periodontitis can lead to bone loss and tooth loss if left untreated. Treatment for periodontitis may include scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and surgery.
How To Treat Periodontal Disease
The first step in treating gum disease is to remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth. This can be achieved with professional deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing. Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing smoothes the tooth root, helps the gums reattach to the teeth, and prevents plaque and tartar from collecting again.
After your teeth have been cleaned, your dentist may recommend a course of antibiotics to help kill the bacteria causing the infection. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat gum disease. Surgery can be used to clean out the infected areas, smooth the roots of your teeth, and rebuild bone loss.
No matter what stage of gum disease you are in, it’s important to get dental care as soon as possible. If you are looking for scaling and root planing in San Francisco, call our office at (415) 986-4534 to schedule your appointment.
Laser Gum Treatment
Another treatment for periodontal disease is laser gum surgery. Laser gum surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a laser to remove the infected tissue and bacteria from your gums. Laser gum surgery is often used as an alternative to traditional gum surgery.
Some benefits of laser gum surgery include:
- Less pain and discomfort
- Reduced bleeding
- Faster healing time
- Minimal scarring
If you find yourself searching online for laser treatment for gum San Francisco, then Post Street Dental is your answer. We use the latest technology to provide our patients with the best possible care.
After Treatment Care
After treating gum disease, taking good care of your teeth and gums at home is essential. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. You should also see your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. If you received treatment for severe periodontal disease, you might want some cosmetic dentistry to improve the appearance of your gums.
Gum contouring can correct gum asymmetry, enhance the shape of your gums, and reduce the appearance of “gummy” smiles. Gum contouring is usually done with a laser. The results are immediate, and there is minimal discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gum disease is a serious condition that requires professional treatment. You cannot cure gum disease without seeing a dentist. But you can take some steps at home to prevent gum disease, such as brushing and flossing regularly, using mouthwash, and seeing your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups.
There is no one “best” mouthwash for gum disease. But a mouthwash containing fluoride can help reduce your risk of gum disease. Fluoride helps to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums.
The earliest stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can often be reversed with good oral hygiene. If you have gingivitis, your gums may be red, swollen, and bleed easily. But with treatment, you can often reverse gingivitis and prevent it from progressing to a more serious form of gum disease.
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The Best Dentist in San Francisco
If you have gum disease, you’ll want to see the best dentist in San Francisco. At Post Street Dental and our partner practice Young Dental SF Group, we’re the experts in treating gingivitis and periodontitis. We use a variety of the latest treatments to make your visit as pain-free and effective as possible. You can trust that you’re in good hands with our team of highly skilled and experienced dentists.
We are conveniently located in the heart of the city at 490 Post St, Suite 520, San Francisco, CA. Our office is easily accessible by public transportation, and parking is nearby. Feel free to visit our office to schedule your appointment or call (415) 986-4534.
We look forward to seeing you!