Periodontics

Your gum health is an essential part of overall dental health. When you partner with a practitioner like Ashley Kim, DDS, at Walnut Woods Dental in Walnut Creek, California, you have access to the very latest tools and techniques to keep your gums healthy. Book a visit online or by phone today to get started. 

What is periodontics?

Periodontics is an area of dental practice focused on addressing the health of your gum tissue and jaw. Your gums play a number of important roles. Gum tissue helps hold your teeth in place, providing support that helps maintain your bite. 

Gum tissue also creates a strong barrier between the environment within your mouth and your internal tissues. The human mouth is filled with a complex mix of harmful and helpful bacteria, and keeping potentially harmful germs out of your bloodstream is important. 

Researchers link gum disease to a wide range of general health problems. Some examples include heart disease, stroke, hypertension, and diabetes. Healthy gums go beyond a healthy smile by reducing your risk of serious health issues. 

What are some signs I might need periodontics care?

Understanding what gum disease looks like is the best way to know when to seek professional care for yourself or a loved one. 

Gingivitis

The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis causes swollen gums that take on a deeper shade of pink or red. You may notice increased sensitivity, as well as blood when you brush or floss. Gingivitis is reversible when caught early. Improving your dental hygiene routines is usually enough to restore healthy gums. 

Periodontitis

This advanced stage of gum disease occurs when swollen gums begin to pull away from the sides of your teeth. This creates small “pockets” where bacteria can thrive. Periodontitis can cause significant swelling, pain, and even bad breath. You might also notice your teeth shifting out of alignment. 

You should pay attention to how your gums look and feel while performing your oral hygiene routines. If you notice changes, schedule a diagnostic assessment right away. 

How can I maintain optimal gum health?

If you have periodontitis, professional treatment is the only way to restore healthy gum tissue. Dr. Kim can perform a treatment called scaling and root planing to clean teeth below the gumline and smooth the surface of tooth roots to make it harder for plaque to take hold. 

Your dental hygiene routines go a long way toward maintaining healthy gums. Brush teeth and gums gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and floss carefully once a day. 

If you’d like a refresher course on proper brushing and flossing techniques, just let Dr. Kim know during your next dental exam. Booking a visit is as easy as a quick phone call or a few moments online, so don’t delay.