Gum Disease Treatment In San Jose, CA

Patients seeking gum disease treatment in San Jose, CA, can find clear, evidence-based guidance at My AZ Dental. This page explains how periodontal care works, when it is recommended, and what results are realistic over time. Many patients ask what is periodontal disease and how it progresses, so the information below focuses on causes, stages, treatment choices, and home care.

Gum Disease Treatment Explained

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, starts when plaque hardens into tartar along and under the gumline. The earliest stage, gingivitis, involves inflamed gums that may bleed when brushing. If not controlled, the condition can advance to periodontitis, where bacteria reach deeper areas, pockets form around teeth, and bone loss may occur. Understanding gingivitis vs periodontitis is important because early care is simpler and more comfortable.

Typical signs of gum disease include red or swollen gums, bleeding with brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, gum recession, and teeth that feel loose. Early evaluation helps protect the supporting bone around teeth and can reduce the need for more complex procedures later.

  • Bleeding, tender, or puffy gums are common early warnings.
  • Chronic bad breath can indicate bacteria below the gumline.
  • Gum recession may make teeth appear longer and increase sensitivity.
  • Spaces or shifting teeth can signal bone loss around roots.

How Gum Therapy Can Help

Timely periodontal care aims to reduce inflammation, control bacteria, and stop further damage. Benefits of deep cleaning and related therapies often include improved gum comfort, fresher breath, and a healthier foundation for your teeth.

  • Treatment removes plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing cannot reach.
  • Inflammation and bleeding usually decrease as tissues heal.
  • Stabilizing the gums helps protect the bone and keep teeth secure.
  • Improved gum health supports better overall oral hygiene results.
  • Ongoing periodontal maintenance lowers the risk of relapse.

What Happens During Treatment

Evaluation And Diagnosis

The visit begins with a periodontal charting of pocket depths, a review of medical history, and dental X‑rays to assess bone support. This assessment guides a personalized plan that may include non-surgical gum therapy first.

Non-Surgical Therapy: Scaling And Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a focused “deep cleaning” that removes tartar and bacterial deposits from tooth surfaces above and below the gumline. Local anesthetic keeps the area comfortable while the root surfaces are smoothed to discourage new buildup. In many cases, this method can reduce pocket depths and allow gums to reattach more closely to the teeth.

Adjunctive Therapies

Depending on the findings, the plan may include site-specific antimicrobials, an antibacterial rinse, or laser-assisted bacterial reduction. These measures support healing by lowering bacterial levels and reducing inflammation.

Surgical Options When Needed

If deep pockets persist or bone defects are present, surgical care may be discussed. Options can include flap surgery to access deeper deposits, gum grafting to cover recession, or regenerative techniques to help rebuild bone in select areas. These procedures are considered when non-surgical care is not enough to reach the affected sites.

What To Expect Before And After Care

Before treatment, plan to share your medical history and any medications, including blood thinners or diabetes medications. Good home care starts right away with gentle brushing and interdental cleaning. After deep cleaning, temporary soreness or sensitivity is common and usually improves within a few days.

Most patients return for a re-evaluation four to six weeks after scaling and root planing to check healing and pocket depths. Periodontal maintenance visits are then scheduled, often every three to four months, to control plaque and tartar and to monitor the gums. Strong daily habits make the biggest difference. Use a soft toothbrush, clean between teeth with floss or interdental brushes, consider a water flosser, and follow any recommendations for antimicrobial rinses.

  • Quit tobacco to support healing and reduce future risk.
  • Choose a balanced diet and limit frequent sugary snacks.
  • Call promptly if you notice swelling, persistent bleeding, or looseness.

For questions about gum disease treatment in San Jose, California or to arrange a visit, contact My AZ Dental at 408-295-1100.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Disease Treatment