Gum Disease Treatment In Gilroy, CA

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is the result of an infection and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support your teeth. In its early stage, gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed due to irritation. In its later stage, periodontitis, the gums begin to pull away from your teeth which causes your teeth to loosen or even fall out and may cause bone loss in your jaw. While periodontal disease is mostly seen in adults, children have been known to get it. Either way, it starts with a lack of proper oral care.


Periodontal disease and tooth decay are the two biggest threats to oral health. A recent report from the Dental Association, related to periodontitis, says that 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease and that it increase with age. 70.1% of adults, 65 years and older have periodontal disease and this condition is more common in men than women (56.4% vs 38.4).

Causes of Gum Disease

Bacteria in our mouths start to infect tissue surrounding our teeth, which causes inflammation and leads to periodontal disease. When bacteria stays on our teeth long enough, it forms a film called plaque, which eventually hardens to tartar, also called calculus. Tartar buildup can spread below the gum line, which makes our teeth harder to clean. Then, only a dental health professional can remove the tartar and stop the periodontal disease from progressing any further.

Warning Signs
  • Bad breath or bad taste that won’t go away
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Tender or bleeding gums
  • Painful chewing
  • Loose teeth
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
  • Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
  • Any change in the fit of partial dentures
Risk Factors
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Heredity
  • Crooked teeth
  • Underlying immuno-deficiencies—e.g., AIDS
  • Fillings that have become defective
  • Taking medications that cause dry mouth
  • Dental bridges that no longer fit properly
  • Hormonal changes

Prevention and Treatment

Gum disease can be controlled and treated with a proper oral hygiene regimen and regular professional cleanings by our office. More severe forms of gum disease can also be treated successfully, however, they may require a more extensive treatment plan. Such treatment might include deep cleaning of the tooth root surfaces below your gums, medications, and sometimes corrective surgery. To help prevent or control gum diseases, it is important to brush and floss twice a day to remove any bacteria that causes gum disease and to book an appointment with our office twice per year for checkups, or more frequently if you have any of the warning signs or risk factors mentioned above.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the early warning signs of gum disease?

    Early signs of gum disease may include red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding during brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, and changes in gum appearance. In its early stage, known as gingivitis, gum disease may cause little discomfort, making it easy to overlook. As the condition progresses, patients may experience gum recession, loose teeth, or changes in their bite. At Luma Ajlouni DDS in Gilroy, CA, we can evaluate your gum health and recommend appropriate treatment.

  • Can gum disease be reversed, or is it permanent?

    The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, can often be reversed with professional dental cleaning and consistent oral hygiene. However, advanced gum disease, known as periodontitis, involves damage to the tissues and bone supporting your teeth that cannot always be fully reversed. With appropriate periodontal treatment and ongoing maintenance, the condition can often be managed to help prevent further damage. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for protecting your gums and natural teeth.

  • What treatments are available for gum disease?

    Gum disease treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the health of your supporting gum tissues. Mild gingivitis may improve with professional cleanings and better home care, while more advanced periodontal disease may require scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar beneath the gumline. Some patients may need additional periodontal procedures or specialist care. At Luma Ajlouni DDS, we can assess your condition and discuss suitable treatment options.

  • Is gum disease treatment painful?

    Most gum disease treatments can be performed with minimal discomfort, particularly when the condition is detected early. For deeper cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing, local anesthesia may be used to numb the treatment area. Some patients experience temporary gum tenderness, sensitivity, or mild bleeding afterward. These symptoms generally improve as the gums heal. Your dental team can explain what to expect and recommend appropriate aftercare to support recovery.

  • How can I prevent gum disease from returning after treatment?

    Preventing gum disease from returning requires consistent oral hygiene and ongoing professional care. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss or use interdental cleaning tools every day, and attend recommended periodontal maintenance appointments. Avoiding tobacco products and managing health conditions such as diabetes can also support gum health. At Luma Ajlouni DDS, we can recommend a personalized maintenance schedule to help control plaque buildup, monitor your gums, and reduce the risk of future periodontal problems.

Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums

Healthy gums are essential for a healthy smile. At Luma Ajlouni DDS, we provide personalized gum disease evaluations and treatment options to help manage inflammation, protect your teeth, and support long-term periodontal health.

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