Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection in the gums and bones surrounding the teeth. When untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss, so it’s important to know the signs of gum disease and the steps to take if you have it. Thankfully, early diagnosis of gum infections allows for more proactive treatments to help save your smile. OC Perio & Implants Dental Group offers a comprehensive care plan for anyone with gum disease, reducing your risk of tooth loss.
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is caused by bacteria that accumulate under the gum tissues and trigger an immune response. Inflammation, redness, and bleeding are common. This infection can cause gum tissues and bone to separate from the teeth, which can eventually lead to tooth loss.
Red or swollen gums — Inflamed gums that appear swollen or red are common early signs of gum disease.
Bleeding or tender gums — Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing can indicate gingivitis or more advanced stages of gum disease.
Persistent bad breath — Chronic bad breath that doesn’t improve with oral hygiene could be a sign of gum disease, as bacteria build up and produce foul-smelling gases.
Gum recession — As gum disease progresses, you may notice that your gums are receding or pulling away from the teeth.
Caught in its earliest stages, gum infections like gingivitis are reversible. But the longer they go unaddressed, the more likely you are to experience tooth and bone loss.
The first stage of gum disease is a reversible condition called gingivitis. Gingivitis simply refers to the inflammation of gum tissues. Normally symptoms include swelling, redness, and occasional bleeding in the edges of the gums closest to the teeth. Gingivitis is completely reversible with good home care and routine dental cleanings.
Untreated gingivitis will eventually lead to bacterial deposits under the gum tissues, which trigger gum detachment and associated bone loss (creating “pockets” under the gums.) Bone loss is usually noticed during your dental and periodontal exam or on your most recent X-rays. Treatment for mild to moderate periodontitis usually involves a deep cleaning to remove bacteria and establish a healthy oral environment that can be preserved between checkups.
Aggressive, chronic gum disease causes tooth mobility, severe bone loss, and—unless treated promptly—tooth loss. Most advanced cases of periodontal disease are referred to a periodontist for management.
Gum disease treatment is crucial for preserving both oral health and overall well-being. Untreated gum disease can lead to serious complications, including tooth loss, bone damage, and systemic health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. By addressing gum disease early through professional treatment, you can prevent further progression of the condition and maintain healthy gums and teeth. Additionally, gum disease treatment can alleviate symptoms such as bleeding gums, bad breath, and gum recession.
A dentist may refer a patient to a periodontist if the gum disease is very advanced and doesn’t respond to conventional therapy or if the patient has medical risk factors that pose a health risk. In most situations, mild to moderate gum disease is treated in your general or family dentist’s office, with isolated or advanced areas of severe infection being referred to a specialist.
Because periodontists have access to more advanced resources for treating periodontal disease, they can offer proven results and adjunctive therapies that may not be accessible in a traditional family dental office.
If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, contact our Mission Viejo dentist today. Untreated, periodontal infections can pose a risk to your overall health, too. Call OC Perio & Implants Dental Group to reserve your next periodontal assessment and discuss your treatment options.
SCHEDULE TODAYCall: 949-364-2850
Periodontics: Periodontics is a dental specialty that involves different oral structures, especially the gums, teeth, and bones.
Bone Graft: A dental bone graft is a procedure to add more bone in a part of the jaw where bone has been lost or where additional support is needed.
Tartar: Tartar is a hard yellowish substance that forms on your teeth and causes them to decay if it is not removed.
Periodontal Surgery: Periodontal surgery is a dental procedure to restore the look and function of teeth, gums, and bone damage due to severe gum disease.
About Our Dentistry
We make periodontal care thorough, gentle, and personal, from diagnosis through long-term maintenance.
Here are just a few reasons our patients love us:
Board-Certified Specialists — Focused entirely on the gums and bone that support your teeth.
Laser and Microsurgery — Gentler tools than conventional surgery.
Advanced Imaging — Clear diagnosis before any treatment is recommended.
Lasting Relationships — Ongoing care that protects your results.
The entire staff is stellar. Robin, the hygienist, is very thorough and gentle. I would give him a hundred stars if I could.
Always a professional, friendly and efficient office. My daughter has special needs and for over 15 years the office has been more than patient and welcoming. Highly recommended!
Lauren, a dental hygienist in Dr. Setya's office, did a very thorough cleaning today. She was professional, collaborative, and gentle. She gave me practical advice on maintaining my smile!
As always, impeccable professionalism and effectiveness. New hygienist treated me today. Superlative demeanor! It's nice to have a practice I can ALWAYS count on!
Dr. Bergman had helped me so much with my gum recession over the past few years. She always takes time to explain things to me and makes me feel comfortable and well taken care of. She has improved my overall gum health. I really appreciate Dr. Bergman and all the staff and Team Setya. Thank you!
Omar, Angela, Nancy and Dr Setya were very professional and made my visit so pleasant! Thank you so much!
I generally don't write reviews, however I had to let everyone know what an amazing office this is! First of all, the staff is absolutely amazing! So friendly, kind and caring, and knowledgeable. All the Doctors are also amazing! They take time to explain everything to you, and their work is top notch. I've never had a Doctor reach out to me on a weekend after my surgery to make sure I was good. I highly recommend this office!!!!
Since the first day I came to Dr Setya's office I felt super welcomed. Dr Setya did a thorough exam and explained all my options for treatment without any pressure to proceed immediately. I underwent a dental surgery yesterday and the professionalism and care I received through the entire process was superb! Dr. Setya and his staff are THE BEST! Extremely efficient, friendly, professional. I do appreciate their follow-up and thoroughness.
Have a great visit with Dr. Setya andlauren.The entire office is very friendly and professional.
I had a great experience with Dr. Setya and Susie for a recent procedure. Quick and painless and I was on my way home!
Dr Setya's staff was so kind and explained every thing thoroughly. Dr Setya did a thorough exam and explained all my options for treatment without any pressure to proceed immediately. I have not started treatment but was very impressed with the office, staff and doctors.
I had such a great experience with Dr. Bergman and Susie. My procedure went well and they were kind and comforting the whole time. Would definitely recommend.
Dr. Setya and his team are awesome! They take the time to thoroughly examine and formulate a treatment plan for each patient. They are knowledgeable, friendly, thorough, and committed to improving their patients' oral health.
Drs Setya and Bergman are the dream team!! Both are skilled, caring, and attentive to their patients needs. It is always evident that the dentists and the entire team collaborate well to provide comprehensive and high quality care. I always leave the office feeling confident in their treatment plan and grateful for their expertise. Highly recommend this dynamic duo for top-notch dental care!
I have been going to this periodontist for the past 20 years to maintain my dental hygiene. The entire staff, hygienist, office personal and of course Dr. Setya are very professional and treat me as a valued patient.
I had a very good experience with Susie, the assistant. She greeted me with her smile and her good sense of humor made my day. Because of her, I'd definitely come back and recommend people.
Dr. Setya is the best periodontist in South OC! The staff is the best in town and most accommodating. Would highly recommend to anyone. Suesie is very welcoming and great at her job
Great office! A lot of offices I work at as a hygienist send their patients to him. Highly recommend
The staff and Doctor Setya were very helpful and attentive. They explained the procedure very well, informed me step by step what I can expect. Excellent customer service and very professional.
I want to thank Dr. Bergman and Nihad for your thoughtful and gentle care of my gum issues. I am so thrilled to be your patient! I definitely am in the best of care with you both on my case. Nihad, you are the greatest! You take the time to make sure I am comfortable. Your patience and expertise are so appreciated. I DO NOT like spending time in a dental chair, YIKES, but you help me get through it with your graciousness and skill. Thank you!!
Ready to transform your smile? Request your periodontal care appointment in Mission Viejo, CA, and our team will reach out to confirm a time that works for you — no pressure, just a warm, honest conversation about your goals.
Prefer to talk? Call or text (949) 364-2850
