BEST CANDIDATES

Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, is not easy to discover by yourself, which is the reason why it is very important to schedule yearly dental examinations at LifeTime Smiles of OC. This provides Dr. Abraham a chance to check your gums so he can recognize and address the problem before it affects your mouth and general wellbeing. As periodontal disease gets worse, signs will include swollen or red gums, bleeding due to regular flossing and brushing, a separated or receded gumline, and chronic halitosis (bad breath). At the subsequent phases of periodontal disease, you can also feel pain when chewing and sensitivity to cold and hot foods. It’s necessary to schedule an appointment if you’re seeing any of these signs so the disease can be addressed before it gets into your blood stream.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Treatment for periodontal disease will be based on the intensity of the disease. If Dr. Abraham determines you have periodontal disease, he will discuss his suggestions for your treatment program. In cases caught early, scaling and root planing (SRP) is usually done to clean out your gum pockets. In more serious cases, antibiotics can be taken along with numerous SRP procedures. Acute cases of gum disease normally call for gum surgery, like pocket reduction or gum grafting. This may include the use of laser technology such as the Gemini soft tissue laser. 

RECOVERY

Based upon the stage of gum disease and treatment program, your recovery period will be different. You might need to have a number of appointments at LifeTime Smiles of OC to completely correct your periodontal disorder. After your dental health is restored, you must continue attending regular dental exams and cleanings at LifeTime Smiles of OC. It’s also wise to keep up a daily home dental hygiene regimen, including flossing and brushing. Dr. Abraham may suggest an antibacterial mouthwash or toothpaste to reduce your chance of developing another periodontal disorder.

INSURANCE COVERAGE

Expenses for gum disease therapy will vary depending upon the seriousness of the illness, as well as the processes required. If you are using dental insurance, then our office will talk to your insurance provider to ascertain what they pay and if there’ll be any extra expenses. For patients with no insurance, LifeTime Smiles of OC takes many payments and we will be able to help you to find medical financing. If you have any questions about financing, please speak to Dr. Abraham during your consultation. Not going to the dentist due to fiscal concerns can lead to larger problems and much more costly therapies.

PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Periodontal disease will get worse if you do not receive the correct therapy so it is crucial to get expert help when any signs occur. At LifeTime Smiles of OC, we work with you to renew your gums and avoid future cases of disease. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Abraham, get in touch with our office in Santa Ana, CA.