San Mateo, CA dentist provides effective treatment for gum disease

Gum disease can develop at any age. Untreated, it compromises oral health, causes tooth loss, and can have grave impact on overall wellness. Dr. Glenn Belen and his hygiene team at San Mateo Dental Care help patients in the San Francisco Bay area of CA get this serious condition under control and maintain healthy mouths.

A daily battle in your mouth

Hundreds of strains of bacteria live in your oral cavity. Some multiply aggressively, feeding on sugars and starches. Your body tries to flush these harmful pathogens with saliva, but bacteria build a protective film of sticky plaque that keeps them adhered and traps food debris. As they eat, bacteria produce toxins that irritate soft tissues.

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease is characterized by puffy, discolored gums that bleed when you brush or floss, and foul breath or taste in the mouth. Typically, there is no pain.

Without treatment, the condition progresses to periodontitis. Gums loosen from teeth, forming pockets that trap more bacteria. Bacteria penetrate deeper, prompting an inflammatory response that gradually destroys connective tissue and bone. Teeth lose attachment and fall out or must be extracted. Along the way gum recession makes teeth look long and exposes root surfaces prone to decay.

Bacteria associated with gum disease enter the blood stream, triggering systemic inflammation linked to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart attack, and other serious illnesses.

Get gum disease under control in San Mateo, CA

While it is never too late to seek qualified treatment for gum disease, the sooner the better. Dr. Belen checks for early signs of it during regular examinations. Care is personalized, with a range of periodontal services including:

• Scaling and root planing, a manual process of removing bacterial plaque and smoothing root surfaces.
• Laser therapies to sanitize pockets and roots.
• Gentle laser excision of diseased gum tissue.
• Bone grafting to aid in hard tissue regeneration, in preparation for dental implants, or to improve facial appearance.
• Guidance on at-home care and frequency of professional cleanings to keep gum disease at bay.

Dr. Belen and his team take your health seriously! Call (650) 344-7500 in San Mateo, CA to schedule gum disease evaluation.