whs-black

Periodontal (Gum) Care

Periodontal (Gum) Care In West Hills, CA

Believe it or not, half of American adults have periodontal disease—also known as gum disease—according to the American Academy of Periodontology. Gum disease has many different phases, starting with gingivitis and eventually leading to accelerated stages of periodontitis. As we get older, there are many factors can increase the risk of gum disease. These include: gums naturally receding, teeth wearing down and becoming more sensitive, and certain medications.

Dental Clinic
professional-dental-cleaning-in-san-diego

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Gun disease warning signs include:

  • Gums are tender or sore
  • Gums look red and/or swollen
  • Bleeding gums
  • Teeth sensitivity or pain
  • Loose teeth caused by weakening gums
  • Persistent bad breath


If untreated, gum disease can eventually result in many oral health issues such as tooth loss.

Periodontal Disease Treatment in West Hills, CA

No matter what phase of gum disease you have, the team at West Hills Smiles can help. Previously, gum disease required surgery to fix. While this may still be an option for more advanced cases, there are now many less invasive procedures that can be used.

A diagnosis will occur during a routine checkup or if a patient comes in due to noticing any of the warning signs listed above. Your dentist will present you with the options and come up with a game plan.

  • Scaling and Root Planing – This is a standard first procedure that can help many patients. The plaque, tartar deposits, and bacterial toxins are scaled from the tooth, and the roots are smoothed to prevent future buildups.
  • Arestin® Local Antibiotic Treatments – This antibiotic treatment is often used after a scaling and root planing treatment to continue fighting bacteria around the gums for several weeks. This can greatly help the gum recover properly after the treatment and halt gum disease from reoccurring.

Long-term Plans – Your West Hills, CA dentist will assess the progress and discuss any further procedures that may be needed or how to keep gum disease from returning.

Same-Day Appointments & Dental Emergencies

Whenever possible, our dental practice will accommodate dental emergencies and special needs on the same day you call us. If you experience a dental emergency or are having intense dental pain, please call our West Hills, CA office at 818-346-4303 right away to schedule an appointment!
appointments are available