Gum Disease Treatment in Salinas, CA

The leading Gum Disease Dentist in Salinas, CA

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. At NEXT Dentistry in Salinas, CA, we offer gentle and effective gum disease treatment to protect your oral health. Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection of the gums and supporting tissues that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Our experienced team is here to help you prevent, detect, and treat gum disease early, so you can keep your gums and teeth strong for life.

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease

  • Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
  • Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
  • Red, puffy, or tender gums
  • Receding gums (teeth appearing longer at the gum line)
  • Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
  • Loose or shifting teeth in advanced cases


If you notice any of these warning signs, it's important to seek gum care. Periodontal disease can progress silently without obvious pain until significant damage has occurred. Regular dental checkups at our Salinas office are crucial for catching gum issues early.


Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease usually starts as gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gum tissue caused by plaque buildup. Early signs include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing. If gingivitis is not addressed, it can advance to periodontitis – a more serious stage where bacteria infect below the gum line, causing gum recession, pain, and even loosening of teeth. Periodontitis is a leading cause of adult tooth loss. The good news is that with prompt care and proper oral hygiene, gum disease is preventable and treatable.

Our Gum Disease Treatment Approach

When you visit NEXT Dentistry for gum care, we will start with a thorough periodontal examination. This includes measuring the pockets around your teeth and checking for any signs of infection or bone loss. Based on the exam:


  • Early-stage gingivitis: We perform a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Our hygienists will also review proper brushing and flossing techniques to help you reverse gingivitis at home.


  • Moderate periodontitis: Our dentist may recommend a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing. This non-surgical treatment clears out bacteria and tartar from beneath the gum line and smooths the tooth root surfaces to help gums reattach and heal. We may also apply antibacterial rinses or localized antibiotics to reduce infection.


Ongoing maintenance: After initial therapy, regular periodontal maintenance cleanings (more frequent than standard cleanings) will keep gum disease from returning. We partner with you on personalized oral hygiene plans and schedule follow-ups to monitor your gum health.


In severe cases that do not respond to initial therapy, we will refer you to a trusted local periodontist or discuss advanced treatment options. Our goal is always to use the least invasive, most effective methods to restore your gum health.

Preventing Gum Disease

Preventive care is key to gum health. Here are some tips we emphasize to our Salinas patients:


  • Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, and floss or use interdental cleaners every day to remove plaque between teeth.
  • Visit NEXT Dentistry for routine checkups and professional cleanings every six months. Regular dental cleanings remove tartar that brushing can’t, and allow us to catch early gum inflammation before it worsens.
  • Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks. Good nutrition supports healthy gums, while excessive sugar fuels plaque bacteria.
  • Don’t smoke or use tobacco. Tobacco use dramatically increases the risk of gum disease and makes treatment less effective.
  • Consider antibacterial mouthwash or dentist-recommended rinses if you are prone to gum problems, as these can reduce plaque and gingival bacteria.


By following these steps and staying proactive, you can greatly reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.


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