Gum Disease Treatment in Chino, CA

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth, primarily your gums and the bone beneath them. It begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along and under the gumline.

Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and even affect your overall health, increasing your risk for heart disease and diabetes.

There are two main stages of gum disease:

• 1.Gingivitis (Early Stage)
• Symptoms: Red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss
• Reversible with good oral hygiene and professional cleanings

• 2.Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)

• Gums start to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets
• Leads to bone loss, tooth mobility, and possibly tooth loss
• Requires deeper cleaning, and sometimes surgery

Causes of Gum Disease

The primary culprit of gum disease is plaque, a film of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day. If not removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which cannot be cleaned at home.

Some patients are more at risk of developing gum disease than others. Common risk factors include:

• Smoking (biggest risk factor!)
• Diabetes
• Genetics/family history of gum disease
• Stress, which weakens your immune response
• Poor-fitting dental restorations
• Poor oral hygiene
• Hormonal changes
• Certain medications that reduce saliva or affect the gums

Gum Disease Treatment

Gingivitis

• Professional cleaning by your Chino Valley Smile Center hygienist
• Improved brushing and flossing techniques at home
• Antibacterial rinses, if needed

For Periodontitis

• Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning below the gumline)
• Antibiotic therapy
• Laser therapy or surgical treatments in severe cases
• Regular periodontal maintenance visits (every three to four months)

The earlier gum disease is caught, the easier it is to manage or even reverse.

Prevention

Prevention is a simple and powerful tool against gum disease:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste (use proper technique!)
• Floss daily—don’t skip this step!
• Use antibacterial mouthwash, if recommended
• Visit our Chino dental office regularly (every six months or more if you're at risk)
• Avoid smoking
• Eat a balanced diet to support your immune system Manage systemic conditions like diabetes