Periodontal (Gum) Therapy

The word periodontal means “around the tooth”.  Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth.  Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva.  If plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar).  When plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone.  Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it!  Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.

Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy.  Researchers are determining if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions.  Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

  • Bleeding gums– Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss
  • Loose teeth– Also caused by one loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone)
  • Spacing between teeth– Caused by bone loss
  • Persistent Bad Breath– Caused by bacteria in the mouth
  • Pus around the teeth and gums– Sign that there is an infection present
  • Receding gums– Loss of gum around a tooth
  • Red and puffy gums– Gums should never be red or swollen
  • Tenderness or Discomfort– Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth

Periodontal Therapy Procedures

Periodontal therapy includes both surgical and non-surgical techniques to restore health to the tissues that support the teeth (gums and bone) and prevent tooth loss. They include:

Scaling and Root Planing. These deep-cleaning techniques are the best starting point to control gum disease. Plaque and calculus (tartar) are removed from beneath the gum tissues, using hand scalers and/or ultrasonic instruments.

An animated illustration showing the process of scaling

An animated depiction of a root planing procedure

Gum Grafting. Sometimes it’s necessary to replace areas of lost gum tissue so that tooth roots are adequately protected. This can be accomplished by taking healthy gum tissue from one area of the mouth and moving it to where it is needed, or by using laboratory-processed donor tissue.

Periodontal Plastic Surgery. When used to describe surgery, the word “plastic” refers to any reshaping procedure that creates a more pleasing appearance of the gum tissues.

Periodontal Laser Treatment. Removing diseased gum tissue with lasers can offer significant advantages over conventional surgery, such as less discomfort and gum shrinkage.

Crown Lengthening Surgery. This is a surgical procedure in which tooth structure that is covered by gum and bone tissue may need to be exposed either for cosmetic reasons (too make the teeth look longer and the smile less gummy) or to aid in securing a new dental crown.

Dental Implants. Today’s preferred method of tooth replacement is a titanium dental implant, which is placed beneath the gum line and into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. The implant is then attached to a realistic-looking dental crown that is visible above the gum line and indistinguishable from a natural tooth.

Keeping Good Periodontal Health

Maintaining proper home care, having routine dental checkups and cleanings,  eating a nutritious diet low in sugar, and staying away from tobacco in all forms, will also increase your periodontal health — and your chances of keeping your teeth for life.

Pleasanton Prosthodontics

5 out of 5 stars based on 58 Periodontal (Gum) Therapy reviews

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

We had the privilege of meeting Dr. Chao after consulting with three other prosthodontists, each of whom recommended vastly different—and at times, extreme—treatment plans for our aging mother. From the very first visit, Dr. Chao and her team stood out for their kindness, compassion, and professionalism. Unlike other practices, Dr. Chao took her time to carefully explain the entire process, ensuring we understood every step and how it would be tailored to our mother’s unique needs, especially given her underlying health issues. What truly set Dr. Chao apart was her incredible attentiveness. She listened intently to all of our mother’s concerns and addressed each one with an impressive level of care and thoughtfulness. It was clear that she was not only focused on the technical aspect of the treatment, but also deeply concerned about our mother’s comfort and long-term well-being. The results speak for themselves—my mother’s dentures now feel like a natural part of her, something she hasn’t experienced in over four years. The fit, comfort, and quality are exceptional. Dr. Chao didn’t rush; she meticulously crafted a solution built to last. We are beyond grateful for the life-changing care she provided and would highly recommend her to anyone seeking the absolute best in prosthodontics.

- SamM

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

With the advice of my general Dentist to get serious about my teeth. With this i started out at 80 years old to do something. Did some talking with various firms and Dr. Chao. I decided to try Dr. Chao a small local provider. Extremely satisfied with the upper implants at 84. Again i had the lower implants with the same results. Very pleased at 85 with them all. So i give them a thumbs up and 100% recommendation.

- Ken B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

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- Steve M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I was happy to replace my old denture at Pleasanton Prosthodontics. Doctor Nguyen is highly skilled in this kind of dentistry. She made my teeth look attractive and my eating more comfortable and enjoyable. Even though it is a bit expensive but ultimately worth it.

- Sasha M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Everyone was so lovely and kind - I am so pleased with my teeth. The way Dr. Chao made me feel like I had a winning smile before any work was done cannot be understated. I came here from a referral (via my orthodontist) for veneers and Dr. Chao was so nice about my teeth right from the beginning. I felt so confident and happy while sitting in her chair and trusted her completely with the final product. Everyone on staff was also so lovely and kind. Highly recommend coming here to experience top notch service, care, and consideration.

- Elaine T

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I had to have a new nightguard made as mine was no longer functional. Dr. Nguyen took her time in adjusting my bite with my new nightguard, and with such care. I have a difficult bite, and she really took the time to listen to me, and left it open for future adjustments as she knew I would most likely need them. I am so happy with the doctors, and all of the staff in this office. It is really a rare find!!!! I feel so blessed to have found my dental home.

- Dee P

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

The staff is way, great, real friendly, real talkative, real helpful, respectful, and down the Earth

- Cynthia green

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Amazing staff and doctors!

- Anonymous

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I had been working on a plan for my bridge work for over 20yrs. Dr Chao came up with a good plan that we both agreed to and executed on it. I’m super happy with my new teeth!

- Dimitri K

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Super friendly, efficient and knowledgeable

- Linda Chao

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Always superb care

- Anonymous

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Hi Had oral cancer an was needing teeth to be pulled it has been many other dentist that dould not work on me do to the radiation treatments I had! Dr.Chao an Tara went over and above to find someone who could help me an for this I will be forever greatfull my journey has yet to begin with a lot of risk but I feel at ease with all these wonderful people going full blast to help me!

- Andrea A

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Staff's are all nice and friendly. Dr. Olivia Nguyen is very accommodating, kind and knowledgeable . Thank you Dr. Nguyen for taking care of me, I'm so glad that you're my dentist!

- Susan D

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Very nice and professional.

- Jackie C

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Everyone is fabulous, and they’re great with information that’s needed for one’s “upgraded” teeth. Happy with mine. Dr. Olivia is smart, lovely and she has great teeth! Her team is warm and pleasant at all times. Thank you, Ladies! Highly recommended.

- Marie G

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I would say if you fear going to the dentist they might change your. I would gladly recommend them to family and friends.

- Anonymous

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Nice office, Dr Chao is very gentle and explains everything before each procedure, All the staff is very friendly and helpful.

- Steve F

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I am very pleased with the results of my Prosthidontic treatments. Dr. Chao and her team was a pleasure to deal with!

- Alex V

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Wonderful care!!! ️️️️️

- Susan R

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I highly recommend Dr. Chao professional and expert care from crowns to implants (for my daughter). She does beautiful work, and I couldn’t tell which tooth was the implant when all was done.

- Kimberly C

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