If you notice gum redness, tenderness, or bleeding, don’t ignore these symptoms. They could be signs of gum disease, a common oral condition that can cause tooth loss if left untreated. Walnut Creek Laser Dentistry understands your gums are the foundation of your smile. We offer effective gum disease treatment to maintain optimal periodontal health. Don’t wait for damage to worsen. Visit our Walnut Creek, California, office to explore our gum disease treatment options. 

How does gum disease develop?

Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease. Also called oral biofilm, plaque develops when you fail to brush and floss your teeth properly. Oral biofilm doesn’t just sit on your teeth. It multiplies and, over time, calcifies into tartar, which is bad news for your oral health. The bacteria in tartar inflame your gums, causing early-stage gum disease (gingivitis).

At its onset, gum disease causes symptoms like: 

  • Tender or sore gums
  • Gums that bleed easily when you brush and floss
  • Swollen gums
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Bad breath

Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that destroys the soft tissue and erodes the bone that supports your teeth. This can result in receding gums, loose or shifting teeth, chronic bad breath, and ultimately, tooth loss. Worse yet, research has linked periodontitis to systemic health issues such as heart disease, diabetes complications, and stroke. 

How is gum disease treated?

Your gums aren’t just integral for aesthetics but also for your oral health. Gums anchor your teeth and protect their roots from the onslaught of harmful bacteria. When gums recede, this causes far-reaching effects on your oral and overall health. Luckily, periodontal treatment can restore optimal gum health. 

Our periodontal treatment options include: 

  • Deep teeth cleaning: This non-surgical treatment involves two procedures. Scaling removes plaque, tartar, and other gunk from the deep periodontal pockets. Root planing smooths the surfaces of your roots to promote healing and prevent further infections. 
  • Laser gum therapy: Your Walnut Creek dentist uses technology to treat advanced gum disease. Traditionally, scalpels and sutures are the standard for treating gum disease. Although effective, manual instruments can be invasive and often prolong recovery. Laser technology uses advanced light energy to remove harmful bacteria and diseased tissues—no excisions or stitching. Unlike traditional gum disease treatment, laser periodontal care is comfortable, minimally invasive, and reduces post-op downtime. 
Gum disease video

Can I prevent gum disease?

While we can treat gum disease, the best option is to stop it in the first place. Here are a few tips to prevent gum disease. 

  • Good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily and don’t forget to floss. 
  • Eat healthy: Avoid sugary foods and keep your mouth hydrated.
  • Quit smoking: Tobacco causes dry mouth (xerostomia) and encourages plaque formation. Quit tobacco use of any form (or better yet, don’t start).
  • Dental visits: See your Walnut Creek dentist every six months or sooner for regular check-ups and cleanings. 
  • Manage immune-suppressing conditions: A weakened immunity makes you vulnerable to gum disease. Address diabetes, stress, and other conditions that suppress your immunity. 
PDM Advanced Periodontitis

Gum Disease FAQs

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is an infection that develops when bacteria in plaque build up along the gumline. In the beginning, you might notice bleeding when brushing or gums that look swollen. This stage, called gingivitis, is reversible with care. If ignored, it can progress into periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth and bone loss occurs. At Walnut Creek Laser Dentistry, Dr. Eriksen focuses on early detection, so treatment is easier, gentler, and far more effective.

How much does gum disease treatment usually cost?

Treatment costs vary based on how advanced the infection is. A routine cleaning for mild gingivitis may be a few hundred dollars, while deeper cleanings, laser therapy, or surgical options for advanced cases can cost more. At Walnut Creek Laser Dentistry, you’ll always get a clear explanation of recommended treatments and their fees before moving forward. Dr. Eriksen tailors treatment to your needs and budget so you can make an informed decision.

Will my dental insurance help cover gum disease treatment?

In many cases, yes. As gum disease affects your oral and overall health, insurance companies usually consider treatment medically necessary rather than cosmetic. That means procedures like deep cleanings, periodontal maintenance, and sometimes laser therapy may be at least partially covered. Our team helps you understand your benefits, file claims, and explore financing options if needed, so that cost isn’t a barrier to getting healthy gums.

Does gum disease treatment hurt?

Patients are often surprised at how comfortable today’s treatments are. For deep cleaning procedures, a numbing gel or local anesthetic is used so you don’t feel pain during the appointment. Laser therapy further reduces discomfort because it targets bacteria precisely while encouraging quicker healing. Afterward, some people notice mild soreness, but this usually fades within a couple of days. Dr. Eriksen and his team always check in to ensure your treatment is as easy as possible.

What warning signs should I look out for?

Bleeding gums are the most common early sign, but there are others to watch for: chronic bad breath, gums that appear red or shiny, teeth that look longer because the gums are receding, or changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite. Gum disease doesn’t always cause pain until it’s advanced, which makes routine dental visits critical. Catching the problem early with Dr. Eriksen means treatment can be simpler and less invasive.

Can gum disease be reversed?

It depends on the stage. Gingivitis, the earliest form, can usually be reversed with professional cleaning and better home care. Once it progresses to periodontitis, the damage can’t be undone completely, but treatment can stop further progression and help you keep your teeth. Regular periodontal visits, daily brushing and flossing, and lifestyle changes like quitting smoking all play a role in maintaining gum health after treatment.

Why should I choose Walnut Creek Laser Dentistry for gum care?

Dr. Eriksen combines advanced technology, such as laser dentistry, with a compassionate, patient-first approach. That means your treatment is not only effective but also more comfortable and efficient. Our office emphasizes prevention and education, so you understand your gum health every step of the way. Choosing Walnut Creek Laser Dentistry means you’ll have a caring team dedicated to protecting both your smile and your overall well-being.

Do you need gum treatment in Walnut Creek, CA?

A healthy smile begins with healthy gums. Don't let gum disease ruin your smile and comfort. Call (925) 962-2120 and set up a consultation with Walnut Creek Laser Dentistry. Let's protect your smile at its foundation. 

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