Your Gums Are Doing More Than You Realize
Your Gums Are Doing More Than You Realize
Healthy gums are the foundation your teeth stand on. They protect the bone beneath them,
seal out bacteria, and anchor your teeth in place. When gum disease takes hold, that
foundation begins to erode — quietly, and often without pain, until the damage is already
serious.
At Scola Family Dentistry in Murrieta, CA, Dr. Valerie Scola treats gum health with the same
care and attention she brings to every aspect of your smile. Because protecting your gums is
protecting your teeth — and your overall well-being.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Plaque is the culprit. This sticky film forms constantly on the surfaces of your teeth and along
the gumline. The bacteria in plaque feed on the sugars and starches in your diet and release
acids that irritate gum tissue. If plaque is not removed through consistent brushing and flossing,
it builds up between the gums and teeth — and periodontal disease begins to develop.
Understanding the Two Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis is the first and most reversible stage of gum disease. Characterized by gum
inflammation, redness, and bleeding (especially when brushing or flossing), gingivitis often has
no pain. Many people assume bleeding gums are normal — they are not. They are an early
warning sign.
With professional care and improved home hygiene, gingivitis can be fully reversed. This is why
regular checkups matter: we can catch and treat gingivitis before it progresses.
Periodontitis is the advanced stage, where the infection has moved deeper. The spaces
(pockets) between the gums and teeth grow larger as gum and bone tissue are lost. Teeth can
become loose in their sockets. At this stage, the damage cannot be fully reversed — but it can
be managed and stopped from progressing further.
How We Treat Gum Disease
Treatment depends on the stage and severity of the disease. For many patients, improved
home care combined with more frequent professional cleanings is enough to control earlystage disease.
When deeper intervention is needed, Dr. Scola may recommend periodontal scaling and root
planing — a conservative, non-surgical deep cleaning that removes bacteria and tartar from
below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces to discourage future buildup. This is one of
the most effective treatments available for moderate periodontal disease.
Advanced imaging helps us detect the full extent of the disease and monitor your response to
treatment over time.
Gum Disease and Your Overall Health
Research consistently links periodontal disease to systemic health conditions including heart
disease, diabetes, and respiratory illness. Managing gum disease is not just about saving your
teeth — it is about protecting your broader health.
If your gums bleed when you brush, or if you have noticed any recession, sensitivity, or loose
teeth, do not wait. Book an appointment at Scola Family Dentistry in Murrieta today and get
the answers and care you need.
Book a Consultation
It’s easy and free!
