Periodontal Disease

LivWell Dentistry Our Services Periodontal Disease

LivWell Dentistry

Dentists located in San Francisco, CA & San Ramon, CA

At LivWell Dentistry, Dr. Loo provides experienced diagnosis and care of periodontal disease, or gum disease to her San Francisco and San Ramon, CA areas of based patients.

 

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Periodontal Q&A

What is Periodontics?

Periodontics is the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease, which is the common term for periodontal disease. Four out of five people have periodontal disease and do not know it because it is painless in early stages. However, as the number one reason for tooth loss, and suggested links to other health issues, it is essential that people visit their dentist regularly for checkups and the removal of plaque and tartar to maintain healthy gums.

What Causes a Person to Develop Gum Disease?

 

  • Poor dental hygiene – Preventing dental disease starts at home with good oral hygiene and a balanced diet. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental exams are good preventative care.
  • Tobacco use – Smoking and tobacco use are shown by research to be the most significant factors in the development and progression of gum disease. In addition to experiencing slower recovery times, smokers are more likely to suffer from tartar build up and deep pockets in the gingival tissue.
  • Genetic predisposition – up to 30% of the general population may be genetically predisposed to gum disease, regardless of oral hygiene.
  • Chronic stress and poor diet – Stress lowers the ability of the immune system to fight off disease. Poor diet or nutrition can also have a negative effect on the immune system, making it more challenging to fight of periodontal infections.
  • Diabetes and underlying medical issues – Many medical conditions including diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, arthritis and osteoporosis can make the mouth more susceptible or can accelerate the progression of periodontal disease.
  • Teeth Grinding – The clenching or grinding of teeth can damage the supporting tissue, making is more likely to become diseased.

What Symptoms Indicate Gum Disease?

In early stages, gum disease symptoms are not noticeable. However, as the condition becomes more serious, the symptoms can include:

  • Bleeding gums, especially when brushing
  • Loose teeth
  • New spacing between teeth
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Pus around the teeth and gums
  • Receding gums
  • Red and puffy gums
  • Tenderness or discomfort

Insurance

As a service to our patients, our practice accepts most dental insurance programs, including non-managed care, indemnity (traditional) and PPO out-of-network. We are not part of any managed care network. Our accounting staff will prepare all the necessary forms for your dental benefits. However, we remind you that your specific policy is an agreement between you and your insurance company. Please keep in mind that you are responsible for your total obligation should your insurance benefits result in less coverage than anticipated. Our staff will gladly submit a pre-treatment estimate to your insurance company so that you will know what your benefits will be. The fees charged for services rendered to those who are insured are the usual and customary fees charged to all our patients for similar services. Your policy may base its allowances on a fixed fee schedule, which may or may not coincide with our usual fees. You should be aware that different insurance companies vary greatly in the types of coverage available. Also, some companies take care of claims promptly while others delay payment for several months.