Dr. David Eshom is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile for life. Unfortunately, millions of Americans unknowingly suffer from gum disease, which, if left untreated, can eventually lead to tooth loss—a situation no one wants to face.
At his San Diego dental clinic, Dr. Eshom works proactively to preserve your gum health. During your regular visits, he will meticulously remove plaque and tartar buildup, both of which are breeding grounds for harmful bacteria. Additionally, he will carefully check for any early signs of gum infection, ensuring that potential issues are addressed before they escalate into chronic gum disease (periodontitis).
If you already have gum disease, whether it’s the early stage of gingivitis or the more advanced periodontitis, Dr. Eshom offers a range of treatments tailored to your needs. These may include antibiotics, deep scaling, medicated mouth rinses, and even gentle diode laser therapy (Lasersmile) to help restore your gum health and protect your smile for the long term.
To learn more about Dr. David Eshom‘s multifaceted approach to preventing and treating gum disease, call (858) 455-9151 today to request an appointment at our San Diego, California Dental Practice.
Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a serious infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is primarily caused by plaque, a film of bacteria that releases toxins, leading to the destruction of gum tissue. San Diego dentist, Dr. David Eshom, takes a comprehensive approach to treating gum disease, utilizing cutting-edge techniques such as diode laser therapy (Lasersmile), antibiotics, deep scaling, and medicated mouth rinses.
Laser Dentistry and Periodontal Therapy
One of the advanced methods Dr. Eshom employs to combat gum disease is laser dentistry. The diode laser in periodontal therapy allows for more precise treatment with minimal discomfort and faster healing times compared to traditional non-laser methods. By targeting the soft tissues along the gumline, the laser eliminates disease-causing bacteria directly at the source, promoting a healthier, cleaner smile with fewer complications.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is most often caused by plaque, a sticky biofilm of bacteria that forms continuously on the surface of your teeth. When plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it begins to irritate the gums, causing inflammation. This irritation can lead to the separation of the gum tissue from the teeth, creating small spaces called pockets. These pockets harbor more bacteria, further aggravating the gum tissue and potentially leading to the deterioration of the bone and other tissues that support the teeth. Without timely intervention by Dr. Eshom, this cycle can continue, resulting in tooth loss. Regular dental visits help eliminate plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas, preventing the progression of gum disease.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Gum disease begins as gingivitis, a mild and reversible form of the disease. In this early stage, gums may appear red, swollen, and are prone to bleeding, especially during brushing or flossing. With proper oral hygiene and care, gingivitis can be completely reversed. However, if left untreated, the disease may progress to periodontitis. Signs that gum disease may have progressed include:
- Gums that have receded or pulled away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Teeth that feel loose or are separating
How can I prevent periodontal (gum) disease?
The good news is that you and Dr. Eshom, can help prevent periodontal disease by taking good care of your teeth every day and visiting Dr. Eshom every six months for routine oral health appointments.
1. Brush your teeth well twice a day.
Brushing your teeth thoroughly twice a day helps remove the sticky film of bacteria (plaque) that can cause peridontal disease. Dr. Eshom recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent damage to your gums and a toothpaste containing fluoride to strengthen your teeth and reduce the risk of decay. A good brushing routine removes harmful bacteria and promotes healthier gums.
2. Clean (floss) between your teeth every day.
Flossing daily is crucial to removing bacteria and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline—areas where a toothbrush can’t reach. Consistent flossing helps prevent plaque buildup in these tight spaces and can even reverse early signs of gum disease, like gingivitis.
3. Eat a balanced diet.
Nutrition plays an important role in maintaining both your dental and overall health. Dr. Eshom recommends a diet that includes a variety of foods from the major food groups: grains, fruits, vegetables, proteins (meat, poultry, fish), and dairy. Avoiding excessive sugar and refined starches will help limit the growth of bacteria in your mouth, which feeds on food residues. A balanced diet not only supports your body but also helps keep your gums and teeth healthy.
4. Visit Dr. Eshom, your San Diego dentist regularly.
Routine dental visits every six months are critical for preventing gum disease. During these checkups, Dr. Eshom will conduct professional cleanings to remove any tartar (hardened plaque) that has accumulated, which can’t be removed by brushing and flossing alone. These appointments also allow Dr. Eshom to monitor your oral health and catch any signs of gum disease early, before it can progress.
To learn more about preventing and treating gum disease, call (858) 455-9151 today to request an appointment at our San Diego, California Dental Practice.