Periodontal Disease is a common oral health condition that affects millions of adults in America. Also called gum disease, the condition is almost completely preventable through good oral hygiene. At Vineyard Dental Group, we are committed to helping our patients prevent periodontal disease through comprehensive oral care, routine screenings, and patient education. In the instances that we can’t prevent periodontal disease, we do offer a range of periodontal therapies to help patients regain their oral health. If you’re in Santa Rosa, CA and would like to learn more about our periodontal treatment, give us a call today.

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What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is an oral health issue that impacts the tissue that surrounds the tooth including the alveolar bone and the jawbone. The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, in which symptoms are often minor and easily overlooked. The more advanced form of the condition is periodontitis in which symptoms are much more severe.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

During your routine appointments, your dentist will check for signs of periodontal disease. If you notice any of the warning signs at home, please schedule an evaluation:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Red or swollen gum tissue
  • Sores around the teeth
  • Receding gum lines
  • A change in the bite
  • Chronic bad breath

Periodontal Treatment Options

Your treatment regimen for gum disease depends on how advanced the condition is. Patients with gingivitis may only need more frequent cleanings and improvement in at-home oral hygiene. Patients with advanced periodontitis may require other forms of treatment including:

  • Scaling & Root Planing – This deep periodontal cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and infection beneath the gum line and smooths the roots to prevent future problems.
  • Laser Gum Treatment – Helps regenerate tissue and bone that has been lost to gum disease.
  • Periodontal Maintenance – Increased frequency of routine cleanings in order to maintain oral health and monitor the health of the gum tissue.

Prevention is the Best Treatment for Periodontal Disease

Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and maintaining six-month cleanings and check-ups with your dentist is the best way to prevent periodontal disease. If you are in Santa Rosa, CA and believe you may have early signs of gum disease, call us at (707) 545-0944 to schedule an appointment.