Gum Health and Disease

Gum disease is the infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. It is caused by plaque, a bacterium that creates toxins, which can damage the gums. San Diego dentist, Dr. David Eshom, treats gum disease with a multi-faceted approach that includes the diode (Lasersmile) laser, antibiotics, deep scaling, and mouth rinses.

Laser Dentistry and Periodontal Therapy

With the use of the laser in periodontal therapy, your San Diego dentist, Dr. David Eshom, achieves better results more comfortably and with faster healing than non-laser therapy. Our dental lasers treat the soft tissues of the gum-line in order to fight disease causing bacteria at the source, giving you that healthier, cleaner smile.

With the use of the laser in periodontal therapy, your San Diego dentist, Dr. David Eshom, achieves better results more comfortably and with faster healing than non-laser therapy.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is usually caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. If plaque is not removed with thorough daily brushing and cleaning between teeth, gums become irritated and inflamed. The irritated gum tissue can separate from the teeth and form spaces called pockets. Bacteria move into the pockets, where they continue to promote irritation. Without treatment by San Diego dentist Dr. David Eshom, the process can continue until the bone and other tooth-supporting tissues are destroyed. Regular visits to San Diego dentist Dr. Eshom, help to eliminate bacteria build-up in hard to reach places.

What are the signs of gum disease?

In the early stage of periodontal (gum) disease, called gingivitis, the gums can become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing. Other warning signs indicating gum disease include gums that have pulled away from the teeth, persistent bad breath, or loose or separating teeth.

How can I prevent periodontal (gum) disease?

The good news is that you and San Diego dentist Dr. Eshom, can help prevent periodontal (gum) disease by taking good care of your teeth every day and having regular visits with your dentist, Dr. Eshom.

How to keep your teeth and gums healthy:

Brush your teeth well twice a day.

This removes the film of bacteria from the teeth. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush that is in good condition. San Diego dentist Dr. Eshom, recommends using toothpastes and mouth rinses containing fluoride, to strengthen the teeth and help prevent decay.

Clean (floss) between your teeth every day.

Cleaning between your teeth with floss removes bacteria and food particles from between the teeth, where a toothbrush can't reach. Early periodontal (gum) disease can often be reversed by brushing and flossing daily.

Eat a balanced diet.

Your San Diego dentist, Dr. Eshom, will tell you that by choosing a variety of foods from the basic food groups, such as breads, cereals and other grain products; fruits; vegetables; meat, poultry and fish; and dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, will help to improve your dental health as much as it does your overall well-being.

Visit Dr. Eshom, your San Diego dentist regularly.

It is important to have regular visits to your dentist, and professional cleaning is essential to prevent periodontal diseases.