Stop Gum Disease Before It’s Too Late

At Oceanside Dental Excellence, Dr. Stephen Dankworth, Dr. Kimberly Corrigan-Dankworth, and Dr. Piper Dankworth are committed to helping patients protect their smiles from the silent threat of gum disease. Periodontal disease is one of the most common dental conditions, and it often starts with symptoms so mild they’re easy to ignore. But left untreated, gum disease can lead to irreversible damage, including tooth loss and bone deterioration.

Understanding the Progression of Gum Disease

Gum disease begins when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—builds up along the gumline. If not properly removed through daily oral care and regular dental visits, the bacteria in plaque release toxins that irritate the gums. This irritation leads to inflammation and infection in the surrounding soft tissue.

As the condition progresses, the infection spreads deeper beneath the gumline. The body attempts to fight off the bacteria by breaking down damaged tissue, but in doing so, it also weakens the structures that support your teeth. Eventually, gums begin to recede, teeth become loose, and in advanced cases, they may fall out altogether.

Early Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

The early stages of gum disease often go unnoticed, which is why professional evaluations are essential. Common symptoms include red, swollen gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, and persistent bad breath. You may also experience gum recession or notice that your teeth feel loose or shift out of position.

At Oceanside Dental Excellence, we use OralDNA testing to identify the specific bacteria causing your infection. This allows us to customize your treatment and stop the disease from advancing any further. Our thorough exams ensure we catch periodontal issues as early as possible and explain all available options to restore your gum health.

Effective Treatment for Every Stage

If caught early, gum disease can often be reversed with a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing. This treatment removes harmful bacteria from below the gumline and smooths out the root surfaces to encourage healing. For more advanced cases, we may recommend additional surgical or non-surgical therapies depending on your needs.

No matter what stage your gum disease is in, our team focuses on long-term solutions that support your total oral health. By halting tissue recession and rebuilding damaged areas, we can preserve your natural teeth and improve your overall comfort and confidence.

Take Control of Your Gum Health Today

Gum disease doesn’t have to lead to tooth loss. With early diagnosis and personalized care, it’s possible to stop the damage and restore your smile. If you’re noticing any warning signs—such as bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, or loose teeth—schedule an evaluation right away.

Oceanside Dental Excellence proudly serves patients in Oceanside, Vista, and surrounding areas. Dr. Stephen Dankworth, Dr. Kimberly Corrigan-Dankworth, and Dr. Piper Dankworth are here to help you take control of your gum health and prevent permanent damage with advanced, compassionate care.