What is gum disease?
Gum disease is an infection and inflammation of the tissues that support your teeth. It starts with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that builds up along the gumline. There are two main stages.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest form. Plaque buildup at the gumline causes the gums to become inflamed, and they may bleed near the teeth when you brush or floss. At this stage, the bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place are still healthy.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is the second stage. The bone and fibers around the teeth become damaged, which can lead to bone loss. If plaque is left untreated, it hardens into tartar, and tartar can only be removed by a dental professional. Without treatment, teeth can begin to shift and loosen.
Who might need gum disease treatment?
Gum disease is common. Approximately 50% of U.S. adults over age 30 are affected by periodontitis. Many people do not notice symptoms in the early stages, so regular checkups are how gum disease is usually found.
You may want to schedule an evaluation if you notice:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that pull away from your teeth
- Loose teeth or a change in how your bite fits together
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
Only a dental exam can confirm whether you have gum disease and how far it has progressed. Your dentist will tell you which treatment fits your situation.
Do I need a periodontist for gum disease?
Many patients with gum disease are treated by their general dentist. Our dentists treat gum disease at our Cypress office. If your gum disease is severe, your dentist will explain whether a referral to a periodontist would be the best next step, and we will help you understand your options.
What to expect at your gum disease visit
Your first visit usually includes a full exam and a review of your gum health. Here is what the process generally involves:
- Exam and charting. Our dentist checks the depth of the spaces between your teeth and gums. We record these measurements in computerized charts, so we can compare them at future visits.
- Digital x-rays. We use high-resolution digital imaging to check the bone around your teeth. This type of imaging improves accuracy while minimizing radiation compared to traditional film x-rays.
- A treatment plan. Your dentist explains what they found and recommends a plan. You can ask questions before anything is scheduled.
- Cleaning and treatment. Treatment focuses on removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline, and on helping your gums heal. Your dentist may recommend several visits.
- Follow-up. We track how your gums respond from one appointment to the next and adjust your care as needed.
Gum disease treatment methods at our office
Our dentist uses several tools and methods to treat gum disease:
- Charting. Computerized charting personalizes your treatment and shows how it is working over time.
- Cavitron ultrasonic instrumentation. Modern ultrasonic equipment helps remove plaque buildup quickly and comfortably.
- Soft tissue therapy. This focuses on removing plaque and tartar deposits from the tooth roots, where gum disease can hide.
- Perio Protect. This customized method manages the bacterial film on your teeth using a non-invasive approach aimed at long-lasting oral health.
- Cavi-jet air polishing. An air polishing system works alongside traditional polishing to remove stains.
- Gum reconstruction. When gums have been damaged, we also offer gum reconstruction services.
Not every method is right for every patient. Your dentist will choose the approach that fits your gum health.
How much does gum disease treatment cost, and does insurance cover it?
The cost of gum disease treatment depends on how advanced the disease is and which treatments you need. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your dental plan, so we cannot promise what any plan will cover.
We accept most dental insurance plans, including:
- PPO and indemnity plans
- Medi-Cal and Denti-Cal
- Smile California
- CalOptima dental plans
Does Medi-Cal cover deep cleaning?
Medi-Cal and Denti-Cal coverage for gum treatment depends on your specific plan and your individual needs. Our office can check your coverage for you before your visit, at no cost, so you know what to expect.
Free insurance eligibility check
Dental insurance can be hard to understand. We offer a complimentary insurance eligibility check before your visit. Our team also helps with paperwork and works to help you make the most of your benefits.
Payment options
Our front office can talk through what works best for your budget.
Aftercare and preventing gum disease
After treatment, your gums need time to heal, and your dentist will give you instructions for home care. Most patients are asked to keep up with brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings to protect the results.
Daily habits matter. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss or use an interdental cleaner once a day, and keep up with dental cleanings and exams. These steps keep plaque from building up and help prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.
Why patients choose Pure Cypress Dentist
- Experienced team. Our dentists and staff take continuing education courses regularly, and our team includes a lead dentist and a lead dental assistant.
- Modern technology. We use electronic records, digital imaging, and iTero 3D scanning for accurate planning.
- Convenient scheduling. We are open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. We offer same-day appointments when available.
- Emergency care. If you have a toothache or a broken tooth, call during office hours for a same-day visit. Our office can often be reached after hours, and you can also schedule online after hours.
- Comfort. We offer spa-like amenities to help you feel at ease during your visit.
- Family-run practice. We aim to treat every patient like family and to make your visit pleasant from start to finish.
How to book your gum disease consultation
You can book online or call us at 714-581-8585. Our office is at 9907 Walker St, Cypress, CA 90630.
New patients can take advantage of our new patient specials, which include a cleaning, exam, and x-rays for $59, and a free 2nd opinion. These offers cannot be combined with other offers or reduced-fee plans.
If your gums are bleeding, sore, or pulling away from your teeth, do not wait. Schedule your visit today.
Questions about gum disease
What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, where plaque causes the gums to become inflamed and sometimes bleed. Periodontitis is the later stage, where the bone and fibers that support the teeth become damaged.
Does Medi-Cal cover deep cleaning for gum disease?
Medi-Cal and Denti-Cal coverage depends on your specific plan and your individual needs. Our office can check your coverage for free before your visit so you know what to expect.
Do I need a periodontist for gum disease?
Many patients with gum disease are treated by their general dentist. Your dentist will tell you whether a referral to a periodontist is the best next step for your situation.
Does my dental insurance cover gum disease treatment?
Coverage depends on your dental plan. We accept PPO, indemnity, Medi-Cal, Denti-Cal, Smile California, and CalOptima dental plans, and we offer a free insurance eligibility check before your visit.
Can I get a same-day appointment for gum problems?
Same-day appointments are available when possible for dental emergencies and urgent concerns. Call during our office hours, Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and our team will do what they can to see you right away.
How much does a gum disease consultation cost at Pure Cypress Dentist?
New patients can take advantage of a $59 special that includes a cleaning, exam, and x-rays. Treatment costs depend on your needs, so our team will review your options before any treatment begins.