Gum Disease

Gum disease is a common but serious condition that can damage the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. At My Tooth Place in Westminster, California, Aury Arroyo-Lourenco, DDS, offers preventive care and targeted treatment to help patients manage gum inflammation before it leads to more advanced problems. They focus on early detection, deep cleaning when needed, and ongoing support to protect both oral health and smile stability. If you’ve noticed bleeding gums or other gum disease warning signs, call My Tooth Place or request an evaluation online today.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the tissues that support your teeth. In the early stage, called gingivitis, your gums may look red, feel tender, or bleed when you brush or floss.

If you don’t treat it, the infection can move deeper below the gums and begin to damage the bone and tissue securing your teeth in place.

My Tooth Place checks for signs of gum disease during routine visits to catch problems early.

What causes gum disease?

Plaque (a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day) is the main cause of gum disease. If you don’t remove it well with brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar. Once tartar forms, it’s almost impossible to clean away at home.

Other things that raise your risk of gum disease include:

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Dry mouth
• Stress
• Hormonal changes
• Certain medications

Even if your teeth look fine, your gums may still need attention. Treatment helps control the infection, protect your teeth, and prevent further damage.

What are the signs of gum disease?

Common signs of gum disease include:

• Red or swollen gums
• Bleeding when you brush or floss
• Bad breath that won’t go away
• Gum tenderness
• Gums that seem to pull away from your teeth

As the condition worsens, you may notice loose teeth, pain when chewing, or changes in how your bite feels. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s smart to schedule a dental visit sooner rather than later.

How is gum disease treated?

For early gum disease, your My Tooth Place provider may recommend professional dental cleaning and better home care. If the infection has moved below the gumline, they may suggest scaling and root planing.

This deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below the gums and smooths the tooth roots to help the gums heal and reattach. Your provider may recommend laser dentistry to manage infection and protect your oral health.

Gum disease can lead to tooth loss if you let it progress. It can also affect your comfort, your breath, and the appearance of your smile. Getting treatment helps you protect your gums, support your teeth, and keep your mouth healthier for the long run.

Call My Tooth Place or book an appointment online today to take swift action against gum disease.