Do your gums bleed when you brush, or does your breath feel not-so-fresh by afternoon? These everyday annoyances may be early signs of periodontal disease. The good news: catching problems early is the easiest way to protect your smile. Here’s how to recognize the red flags, understand what they mean, and know when it’s time to see a periodontist in Brentwood or West LA.
Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis—What’s the Difference?
Gingivitis is gum inflammation caused by bacterial plaque. Gums may look red and puffy and bleed when brushing or flossing. With professional cleaning and upgraded home care, gingivitis is usually reversible.
Periodontitis is the advanced stage. Plaque hardens into tartar below the gumline, pockets deepen, bone begins to recede, and teeth can loosen. At this stage, you need professional periodontal therapy to stop progression.
Common Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Gums that look red, swollen, or tender
- Receding gumlines or teeth looking “longer”
- Sensitivity, especially to cold at the gumline
- Spaces appearing between teeth or teeth shifting
- Loose teeth or changes in how your teeth fit together
Risk Factors in City Life
Stress, busy schedules, and on-the-go meals can make daily hygiene and recall visits easy to postpone. Dry mouth from certain medications or frequent coffee consumption can also tip the balance toward inflammation. If you smoke or vape, your risk of periodontal problems rises sharply—another reason to consider quitting before treatment.
How a Periodontist Evaluates Your Gums
During your visit, we measure pocket depths, assess bleeding points, and review X-rays for bone levels. In early or moderate cases, non-surgical therapies like scaling/root planing and localized antibiotics may be enough. In more advanced cases, laser therapy or corrective procedures can stabilize your smile.
Simple Daily Habits That Make a Big Difference
- Brush twice daily with a soft brush angled toward the gumline.
- Floss or use interdental brushes once daily to disrupt plaque between teeth.
- Use an alcohol-free antimicrobial rinse if recommended.
- Drink water after coffee or snacks to neutralize acids and reduce plaque.
- Schedule professional cleanings at the interval your provider recommends.
When to Call a Periodontist
If bleeding persists for more than two weeks, you notice gum recession, or a tooth feels loose, don’t wait. Early intervention is more comfortable, more conservative, and more affordable than crisis care.
Why Choose Connect Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
We offer gentle, modern options—from non-surgical therapy to LANAP laser gum treatment—to help you feel better fast and keep your smile strong. Our team focuses on practical home-care coaching to make results stick long term.
Call Us Today or Contact Us to schedule your periodontal evaluation in Los Angeles.
Protect your smile before little warning signs turn into big problems. Connect Periodontics and Implant Dentistry serves Brentwood, Westwood, and greater Los Angeles. Call (310) 473-8770 to book your appointment.