Gum Disease Treatment – Laguna Niguel, CA

Keeping Your Teeth and Gums Safe

Not everyone is as concerned about gum health as they should be. Most people fully appreciate the importance of preventing cavities, but not everyone is quite as wary of gum disease, even though it affects nearly half of all adults aged 30 years or older and can result in the loss of teeth or raise the risk of multiple systemic health problems. If you notice swollen or bleeding gums, you could be in the early stages of gum disease; call our dental office immediately to schedule a periodontal checkup with Dr. Anderson or receive gum disease treatment in our Laguna Niguel, CA dental office.

Why Choose Orange County Center for Sedation Dentistry for Gum Disease Treatment?

  • Same-Day Emergency Appointments
  • Experienced Dentist and Team
  • Arestin Antibiotics Available

What is Periodontal Disease?

Man with periodontal disease pointing to inflamed gum tissue

A periodontal disease is result of gum tissue becoming infected or inflamed. Periodontal disease comes in two major stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is comparatively mild while periodontitis can cause bone loss and may even loosen the teeth to the point where they might fall out. The main cause of periodontal disease is bacteria that have been allowed to build up on the teeth and spread below the gum line where they are hard to remove.

Scaling & Root Planing

Animated smile with receding gums before scaling and root planing

To get rid of the plaque and tartar buildup that’s contributing to gum disease, Dr. Anderson can perform scaling and root planing as part of a deep cleaning. The scaling process that removes the bacteria is mainly focused on the area around and beneath the gum line. Root planing is another term for smoothing out the surfaces of the tooth root. This is done because it’s easier for bacteria to attach themselves to rough surfaces; a smooth root is less prone to reinfection.

Antibiotic Therapy

Dentist and dental team member discussing antibiotic therapy for gum disease

Naturally, when you hear the word “infection,” one of the first potential treatments that springs to mind is “antibiotics.” Dr. Anderson will often subscribe medication in an effort to get rid of the bacteria that’s living too deep inside the gums to be removed with scaling and root planing alone. Our dental office uses Arestin, a common antibiotic that is applied directly to the periodontal pockets that form between the teeth and gums as a result of gum recession.