Bleeding when you brush is easy to ignore. It doesn't hurt much, and it usually stops on its own. But bleeding gums are often the first sign of gum disease, and gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. According to the CDC, nearly half of adults over 30 have some form of it.
The good news is that gum disease is very treatable, especially when it's caught early. At Agoura Dental Group, our in-house periodontist, Dr. Pedram Fakheri, provides periodontal care at every stage, right here in our Kanan Road office. Here's what to watch for and what treatment looks like.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissue that holds your teeth in place. It starts when plaque builds up along and under the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria. If it isn't removed by brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which only a dental cleaning can remove.
Over time, the bacteria irritate the gums. The gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets. Those pockets collect more bacteria, and the infection moves deeper toward the bone.
The stages of gum disease
Gingivitis. This is the earliest stage. Your gums may look red or puffy and bleed when you brush or floss. There's no bone loss yet, and gingivitis can usually be reversed with a professional cleaning and better daily habits.
Early to moderate periodontitis. The infection has moved below the gumline. Pockets form between the gums and teeth, and the bone that supports your teeth starts to break down. You may notice bad breath that won't go away or gums that look like they're shrinking.
Advanced periodontitis. The bone and tissue holding your teeth have been badly damaged. Teeth may feel loose, shift, or change how your bite fits together. Without treatment, teeth can be lost.
Signs you should see a periodontist
Call us if you notice any of these:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bad breath or a bad taste that doesn't go away
- Gums that are pulling back, making teeth look longer
- Loose teeth or teeth that are shifting
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite
Gum disease often causes no pain until it's advanced. That's why regular checkups matter. We measure your gum pockets at your exam so we can spot problems before you feel them.
Who is at higher risk?
Anyone can get gum disease, but some things raise your risk:
- Smoking or vaping
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy and other hormone changes
- Certain medications that cause dry mouth
- A family history of gum disease
- Crooked or crowded teeth that are hard to clean
- Skipping cleanings or flossing
Research has also linked gum disease to heart disease, diabetes, and other health problems. Healthy gums are part of a healthy body.
How we treat gum disease
Your treatment depends on how far the disease has progressed. Dr. Fakheri will check your gums, measure your pockets, and take X-rays to see your bone levels. Then he'll explain your options in plain terms.
Professional cleaning. For gingivitis, a thorough cleaning plus better brushing and flossing at home is often all you need.
Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning). For early and moderate periodontitis, we clean below the gumline to remove tartar and bacteria from the tooth roots. Then we smooth the root surfaces so the gums can reattach. We numb the area first, so you stay comfortable.
Periodontal maintenance. After a deep cleaning, most patients come in for cleanings every three to four months instead of every six. More frequent visits keep bacteria from building back up. You can read more about why in our post on more than two cleanings a year.
Advanced treatment. When the disease has caused deeper damage, Dr. Fakheri may recommend gum surgery or bone grafting to rebuild lost support. If a tooth can't be saved, he can replace it with a dental implant in the same office.
Nervous about treatment? We offer sedation options to help you relax.
Why it helps to have a periodontist in-house
At many dental offices, gum disease means a referral to a specialist across town. That means new paperwork, a new office, and often a long wait. At Agoura Dental Group, your general dentist and periodontist work under one roof. They share your records and X-rays, so your care stays coordinated from your first cleaning to your last follow-up.
How to protect your gums at home
- Brush twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled brush
- Floss or use a water flosser once a day
- Don't smoke or vape
- Keep your cleanings on schedule
- Tell us about changes in your health or medications
Frequently asked questions
Can gum disease be reversed?
Gingivitis can usually be reversed. Periodontitis can't be fully undone, but treatment can stop it from getting worse and help protect your teeth.
Does a deep cleaning hurt?
We numb the area before we start, so most patients feel pressure but not pain. Your gums may feel tender for a day or two afterward.
Is gum disease treatment covered by insurance?
Most PPO plans cover part of deep cleanings and periodontal maintenance. We accept most PPOs and Medi-Cal, and our team will check your benefits before treatment. See our insurance and financing pages for details.
Do I need a referral to see your periodontist?
No. You can book directly with us.
Get gum disease treatment in Agoura Hills
Bleeding or tender gums are worth a look. The sooner we find gum disease, the simpler it is to treat.
Call (818) 706-2727 or book your visit online. New patients receive a $50 gift card toward any treatment.
