Gum Disease Treatment
Protect your smile and overall health with expert periodontal care from Dr. Irene S. Olaes
What is Gum Disease Treatment?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious infection of the tissues that support your teeth. At Carmel Mountain Dentist, Dr. Irene S. Olaes provides comprehensive gum disease treatment to help patients in San Diego restore their oral health and prevent tooth loss.
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Olaes understands that gum disease affects more than just your mouth—it can impact your overall health, including links to heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions.
Our gentle, effective treatments range from non-surgical periodontal therapy to advanced procedures, all designed to eliminate infection, reduce inflammation, and restore healthy gums.
Warning Signs of Gum Disease
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pockets between teeth and gums
Benefits of Professional Gum Disease Treatment
Prevent CircleDot Loss
Stop gum disease progression to save your natural teeth and avoid costly replacements.
Improve Overall Health
Reduce risk of heart disease, diabetes complications, and other systemic health issues.
Restore Gum Health
Eliminate infection and inflammation for healthy, pink gums that don't bleed.
Fresher Breath
Eliminate bacteria causing chronic bad breath and restore confidence in close conversations.
Pain Relief
Reduce gum tenderness, swelling, and discomfort for improved quality of life.
Better Chewing Function
Stabilize loose teeth and restore comfortable eating and speaking abilities.
Enhanced Appearance
Restore natural gum line and reduce unsightly gum recession for a more attractive smile.
Long-term Savings
Prevent need for extensive dental work like implants, bridges, or dentures.
Personalized Care
Receive customized treatment plans tailored to your specific condition and needs.
Family Protection
Reduce risk of transmitting harmful bacteria to family members through close contact.
Our Gum Disease Treatment Process
Comprehensive Evaluation
Dr. Olaes performs a thorough examination including periodontal probing, X-rays, and assessment of your medical history to determine the extent of gum disease.
Treatment Planning
Based on your specific condition, we develop a personalized treatment plan that may include scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or surgical intervention if needed.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Most cases begin with scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to remove plaque and tartar below the gum line and smooth root surfaces.
Healing and Monitoring
We monitor your healing progress and may prescribe antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses to support recovery and prevent reinfection.
Maintenance Therapy
Regular maintenance cleanings and check-ups help prevent disease recurrence and maintain long-term gum health.
Advanced Treatment (if needed)
For severe cases, we may recommend surgical procedures like pocket reduction or tissue regeneration to restore optimal gum health.
Who Needs Gum Disease Treatment?
Bleeding Gums
If your gums bleed regularly during brushing, flossing, or eating, this indicates inflammation that requires professional treatment.
Persistent Bad Breath
Chronic halitosis that doesn't improve with regular oral hygiene may signal bacterial infection in the gums.
Gum Recession
If your teeth appear longer or you notice gum tissue pulling away from teeth, you may have periodontal disease.
Loose or Shifting Teeth
Adult teeth that feel loose or have changed position may indicate advanced gum disease affecting the supporting structures.
Deep Pockets
Measurements greater than 3mm between your teeth and gums indicate pocket formation that needs professional cleaning.
Diabetes or Heart Disease
Patients with these conditions have higher risk for gum disease and benefit from preventive periodontal care.
Pregnancy
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase gum sensitivity and inflammation requiring specialized care.
Family History
Genetic predisposition to gum disease makes regular periodontal evaluation and preventive care essential.
Investment in Your Oral Health
The cost of gum disease treatment varies depending on the severity of your condition and the specific treatments needed. At Carmel Mountain Dentist, we believe in transparent pricing and will provide you with a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate.
Early Stage Treatment
$200-$400
Per quadrant for scaling and root planing
Moderate Treatment
$500-$1,000
Including antibiotics and follow-up care
Advanced Treatment
$1,200-$3,000
Surgical procedures and tissue regeneration
Insurance Coverage: Most dental insurance plans cover 50-80% of periodontal treatment costs. We accept most major insurance plans and offer flexible payment options to make treatment affordable.
Patient Success Stories
"I was embarrassed about my bleeding gums and bad breath for years. Dr. Olaes and her team were so understanding and gentle. After just a few treatments, my gums stopped bleeding and I feel confident about my smile again. The difference is amazing!"
— Maria S., Rancho Bernardo
"I thought I was going to lose my teeth due to advanced gum disease. Dr. Olaes created a comprehensive treatment plan that saved my natural teeth. Her expertise and caring approach made all the difference. I can't recommend her highly enough."
— Robert T., Scripps Ranch
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Common signs include bleeding gums when brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, red or swollen gums, receding gum line, and loose teeth. However, early gum disease can be painless, which is why regular dental checkups are crucial for early detection.
Is gum disease treatment painful?
Dr. Olaes uses gentle techniques and local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during treatment. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, and any post-treatment sensitivity typically resolves within a few days. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to manage any discomfort.
How long does gum disease treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on the severity of your condition. Non-surgical treatment (scaling and root planing) typically requires 2-4 visits. Healing takes 2-6 weeks, followed by ongoing maintenance every 3-4 months to prevent recurrence.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Gingivitis (early gum disease) can be completely reversed with proper treatment and oral hygiene. More advanced periodontitis can be controlled and managed, but some damage may be permanent. Early treatment is key to the best outcomes.
Will my insurance cover gum disease treatment?
Most dental insurance plans cover periodontal treatment, typically at 50-80% after deductibles. Coverage varies by plan, so we'll verify your benefits and provide a detailed estimate before beginning treatment. We also offer payment plans for your convenience.
How can I prevent gum disease from coming back?
Prevention includes excellent daily oral hygiene (brushing twice daily, flossing, using antimicrobial mouthwash), regular professional cleanings every 3-4 months, not smoking, managing diabetes, and maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
What's the connection between gum disease and other health problems?
Research shows links between gum disease and heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and other systemic conditions. The bacteria and inflammation from gum disease can enter your bloodstream and affect other parts of your body. Treating gum disease can improve your overall health.
Related Services
Don't Let Gum Disease Progress
Early treatment is key to saving your teeth and protecting your health. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Olaes today.
Located at 12335 World Trade Dr. Ste 1B, San Diego, CA 92128