Periodontal [Gum Disease] Treatment in Menlo Park, CA

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums, bone, and other tissues that support your teeth. It is caused by bacteria that grow in your mouth and form a sticky film called plaque. Plaque not removed with daily brushing and flossing can harden into tartar or calculus. This hardened plaque irritates the gum tissue and causes inflammation. If left untreated, this can lead to infection and eventually tooth loss.

At Stanford Family Dental - Dr. Jamie Paychev DDS, we select the treatment for periodontal disease based on the severity of the condition. For mild cases, our dentist may recommend scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gum line. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to restore the health of your gums.

The Causes of Periodontal Disease

Smoking

Smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco increases your risk of developing gum disease. Tobacco use weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off the infection that causes gum disease. It also reduces blood flow to the gums, which makes it more difficult for gum tissue to heal. Smokers are more likely to have severe gum disease than non-smokers.

Genetics

Some people are genetically predisposed to developing gum disease. If you have a family history of gum disease, you are at a higher risk for developing the condition yourself.

Poor Oral Hygiene Habits

If you do not brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque can build up in your mouth and cause inflammation of the gums. Plaque that is not removed hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by our dentist in Menlo Park, CA.

Treatment for Periodontal Disease

Treatment for periodontal disease in Menlo Park, CA, depends on the severity of the condition. In its early stages, gingivitis, the most common form of periodontal disease, can often be managed and even reversed with good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings. However, more intensive interventions become necessary as the disease progresses into more advanced stages, such as mild, moderate, or severe periodontitis. 

Non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing aim to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line. At the same time, antibiotics or laser therapy may be employed to control bacterial infection. In cases where non-surgical methods are insufficient, surgical procedures like flap surgery, bone grafting, or gingival grafting may be required to repair damaged tissues and restore gum health.  

Regardless of the chosen treatment approach, ongoing maintenance through regular dental visits, improved home care practices, and lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and adopting a balanced diet are crucial for preventing the recurrence of periodontal disease and preserving oral and systemic health.

Periodontal disease is a common oral health condition that, if left untreated, can lead to severe consequences, including tooth loss and systemic health issues. Visit Stanford Family Dental - Dr. Jamie Paychev DDS at 150 Middlefield Rd #101, Menlo Park, CA 94025, or call (650) 328-2072 to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your specific needs and take proactive steps to achieve and maintain healthy gums.