The Path to a Healthy Smile: What to Know About Gum Disease

A healthy smile depends on the gums and bone that hold your teeth in place, too. When these tissues get sick, it can affect your entire mouth, and sometimes, even your overall health. At San Dimas Dental Care, we want to help you keep your smile bright and healthy for years to come. That means paying close attention to a condition called periodontal disease. Let's talk about what it is, why it matters, and how we can help.

More Than Just a Cavity: What is Periodontal Disease?

The term "perio" means "around," and "dontal" refers to the tooth. So, periodontal disease in Bakersfield is a serious infection of the gums and the tissues that surround your teeth. It all starts with plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth every day. If plaque isn't removed with regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. This tartar irritates the gums, causing them to become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. This early stage is called gingivitis.

If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into full-blown periodontal disease. At this point, the bacteria can spread below the gum line, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth and form little pockets. These pockets are a breeding ground for more bacteria, which can then start to destroy the bone and tissue that support your teeth. This can eventually lead to tooth loss.

Common signs you might have periodontal disease:

• Swollen or red gums: Healthy gums are firm and pink. If yours look puffy or are a deep red color, it's a warning sign.

• Bleeding gums: Gums should not bleed when you brush or floss. If you see blood, it's a sign of inflammation.

• Persistent bad breath: Bacteria that cause the disease can also cause bad breath that won't go away.

• Gums that pull away from the teeth: This can make your teeth look longer than they used to and is a sign of tissue loss.

• Loose teeth: As the bone that holds your teeth in place gets weaker, your teeth may start to feel wobbly.

• Changes in your bite: If your teeth don't fit together the way they used to when you bite down, it could be a symptom.

Many people don't realize they have the disease in its early stages because it's often painless. That's why regular dental checkups are so important—we can spot the signs long before you do.

Your Partner in Health: A Friendly Dental Clinic in Bakersfield

Choosing the right dental clinic in Bakersfield is the first step toward protecting your oral health. You want a team that is not only skilled but also genuinely cares about your well-being. At San Dimas Dental Care, we take a friendly and personal approach to dentistry. We're a place where you'll feel comfortable asking questions and where we'll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.

What should you look for in a dental clinic?

• A Welcoming Environment: A visit to the dentist should be as stress-free as possible. Look for a clinic that has a friendly, professional staff and a calming atmosphere.

• Comprehensive Services: The best dental clinics offer a wide range of services. This means you can get everything from a routine cleaning and exam to more specialized treatments for conditions like periodontal disease, all in one place.

• Advanced Technology: Modern dentistry uses technology to make your visit more comfortable and more effective. Look for a clinic that uses digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and other tools that help with accurate diagnosis and treatment.

• Focus on Prevention: A great dental team will always focus on helping you prevent problems before they start. They'll teach you proper brushing and flossing techniques and talk to you about your risk factors.

• Clear Communication: Your dental team should take the time to explain your treatment options, what to expect from a procedure, and the costs involved. You should never feel pressured or confused.

At San Dimas Dental Care, we believe in being your partner in health. From your first visit, we'll take the time to get to know you and your oral health goals. We'll perform a thorough examination to check for any signs of disease, so we can stop it in its tracks. We're proud to be a trusted dental clinic in Bakersfield where patients feel heard and cared for.

Our Approach to Periodontal Disease in Bakersfield

If you're dealing with periodontal disease, it can feel overwhelming, but the good news is that it can be treated and managed. The treatment for periodontal disease in Bakersfield depends on how far the condition has progressed.

Common treatments for periodontal disease:

• Professional Cleaning: For gingivitis, a professional cleaning is often enough to remove the tartar and plaque below the gum line.

• Scaling and Root Planing: If the disease is more advanced, we'll perform a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. Scaling removes the tartar from your teeth and below the gum line, and root planing smooths the root surfaces to prevent more bacteria from sticking to them.

• Ongoing Maintenance: After treatment, it's essential to have regular follow-up appointments and maintain good oral hygiene at home to keep the disease from coming back. We'll work with you to create a schedule that's right for you.

• Other Treatments: For very advanced cases, we may recommend other procedures to restore the gums and bone.

At San Dimas Dental Care, we take a proactive approach to periodontal disease in Bakersfield. We use gentle techniques and a personalized plan to help you get back to a state of good health. Our goal isn't just to treat the problem, but to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to keep your smile healthy for a lifetime.

If you have any concerns about your gum health or simply need a professional checkup, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're ready to welcome you to our friendly office and help you on your journey to a healthier, happier smile.