Periodontics in Poway, CA

Why gum health matters

Periodontics is the area of dentistry focused on the gums and the bone that support your teeth. Healthy gums fit snugly around each tooth and help hold it in place. When plaque and tartar build up along and beneath the gumline, the tissue can become inflamed, and over time the supporting bone can be affected. Because gum problems often develop slowly and with few early symptoms, many people are unaware of them until an examination reveals the signs.

The right approach depends on the individual case. Some patients benefit from improved home care and routine cleanings, while others need more focused periodontal treatment. A dental examination, often including measurements around each tooth and imaging when appropriate, is needed to determine the condition of the gums and bone.

Understanding gum disease

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an early, often reversible form of gum inflammation. Gums may look red or swollen and may bleed during brushing or flossing. With improved daily care and professional cleaning, the tissue can often return to health. Catching changes at this stage is one reason regular checkups matter.

Periodontitis

When inflammation continues, it can progress to periodontitis, in which the supporting bone and tissue may be gradually affected and pockets can form between the gum and tooth. This more advanced stage is managed rather than simply reversed, and the goal is to control the disease and preserve the teeth. The dentist explains what stage is present and which options may be appropriate.

Signs worth having evaluated

• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
• Red, swollen, or tender gum tissue
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
• Gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth
• Teeth that feel loose or seem to have shifted
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

These signs do not confirm a diagnosis on their own, but they are good reasons to schedule an examination. If your gums are receding, that specific concern can also be evaluated as part of your periodontal care.

• Receding Gums Treatment
• Laser Deep Cleaning
• Preventive Dentistry

How periodontal care may be approached

Treatment is tailored to what the examination reveals. For many patients, a thorough cleaning below the gumline, sometimes called scaling and root planing, helps remove the deposits that drive inflammation. Laser technology may be used to support periodontal treatment when clinically appropriate. Ongoing maintenance cleanings on a schedule suited to the individual help keep the condition stable, and in more advanced cases the dentist may discuss additional options or referral.

1. The dentist examines your gums, measures around the teeth, and reviews imaging as needed.
2. You receive an explanation of your gum health and any areas of concern.
3. A care plan is outlined, which may include deeper cleaning and improved home care.
4. Maintenance visits are scheduled to monitor and support long-term stability.

• Laser Dentistry
• Family Dentistry

Caring for your gums at home

Daily habits play a large part in gum health. Brushing gently twice a day, cleaning between the teeth, and keeping regular checkups all help control the plaque that leads to inflammation. Factors such as smoking, certain health conditions, and some medications can affect the gums, so it helps to share your full health history with the dentist. Consistent home care combined with professional maintenance gives most patients the best chance of keeping their gums healthy.

What can affect the cost of periodontal treatment

The cost of periodontal care depends on the stage of gum disease, how many areas of the mouth are involved, the type of cleaning or treatment recommended, and how often maintenance visits are needed. Additional imaging or procedures may factor in for some patients. Coverage under PPO insurance also varies from plan to plan. After evaluating your gums, we explain the recommended steps and provide a personalized estimate at your consultation.

• Insurance and Financing

Why patients choose Gentle Dentistry of Poway

• Care from Dr. Shabnam Pedram and Dr. Maggie Abadan
• Thorough evaluation of the gums and supporting bone before treatment
• Laser technology used to support periodontal care when clinically appropriate
• A focus on controlling gum disease and preserving natural teeth
• Clear explanations of your condition, options, and maintenance needs
• Convenient care for patients in Poway, Rancho Bernardo, and Scripps Ranch

Information on this website is educational and does not replace an examination, diagnosis, or personalized treatment plan from a licensed dentist. Treatment recommendations, timing, costs, and results vary by patient.