Gum Health Insights from Dr. John Chaves in Woodland Hills, CA
According to CDC research, nearly 50% of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease—and most don’t even know it. Often painless in the early stages, gum disease can silently cause long-term damage to both your oral and overall health.
At the dental office of Dr. John Chaves in Woodland Hills, CA, we take gum health seriously. We help patients detect gum issues early and provide gentle, effective treatments to prevent more serious complications. As part of preventive care, our dental professionals perform thorough dental cleanings to help reverse early-stage gum disease and stop its progression.
If you’re noticing signs like bleeding gums or bad breath—or if it’s just been a while since your last cleaning—call our Woodland Hills dentist at 818-491-7294 to schedule your appointment today. We proudly serve patients throughout Woodland Hills, Canoga Park, West Hills, Winnetka, and the surrounding areas.
What Is Gum Disease? Why You Might Not Know You Have It
Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is a bacterial infection of the gums caused by plaque buildup. It typically starts as gingivitis—the earliest stage—and can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced stage that affects the bone that supports your teeth.
Many people miss the warning signs until the condition is advanced. Monitoring disease progression is crucial to prevent severe outcomes. This makes routine dental checkups and cleanings with our dentist near Canoga Park crucial for catching and treating it early. If gum disease is left untreated, it can result in irreversible damage to the gums and bone.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Some of the most common contributors include:
- Poor brushing and flossing habits
- Smoking or vaping
- A diet high in sugar or processed foods
- Poor nutrition, such as inadequate intake of essential nutrients like vitamin C, is a risk factor for gum disease
- Hormonal changes (especially during pregnancy or menopause)
- Certain medications or chronic conditions like diabetes
- Genetic predisposition
Even if you brush twice daily, skipping flossing leaves nearly 40% of your tooth surfaces uncleaned—allowing harmful bacteria to thrive between your teeth and under the gumline. Poor nutrition is a significant risk factor for the development and progression of gum disease, as nutritional deficiencies can impact healing and increase susceptibility.
How Gum Disease Affects Your Whole Body
Gum disease isn’t just an oral issue—it’s a systemic health concern. Gum disease has been linked to various systemic diseases, including coronary artery disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Chronic inflammation in the mouth has been strongly linked to several serious health problems, including:
1. Heart Disease
Inflamed gums can release harmful bacteria and inflammatory markers into your bloodstream, contributing to arterial plaque buildup, heart attack, and stroke risk, including coronary artery disease.
2. Diabetes
There’s a two-way relationship: diabetes increases the risk of gum disease, and untreated gum disease makes it harder to control blood sugar.
3. Respiratory Illnesses
Inhaling bacteria from your mouth can lead to lung infections, especially in older adults or those with weakened immune systems.
4. Pregnancy Complications
Gum disease has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight, making oral health especially important during pregnancy.
How to Tell If You Have Gum Disease
Watch for These Common Warning Signs:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession or “long teeth” appearance
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
Even if your gums don’t hurt, these signs could indicate a deeper issue. Don’t wait—early treatment can stop gum disease before it causes permanent damage.
Daily Oral Hygiene and Gum Care Tips From Our Woodland Hills Dentist
Dr. Chaves recommends the following to keep your gums healthy and strong:
- Floss once a day using proper technique (curve the floss around each tooth and clean below the gumline)
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush to help remove plaque and prevent gum disease
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria
- Avoid smoking, which significantly increases gum disease risk
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of vitamins, especially Vitamin C and calcium
- Schedule cleanings every six months (or more often if you’ve had gum issues)
If traditional flossing is difficult for you, consider alternatives like:
- Water flossers
- Interdental brushes
- Soft picks
Consistency is key—even small steps add up to big improvements.
Periodontal Care Options Near Canoga Park
If you’ve already developed gum disease, we offer several effective treatment options to get your oral health back on track. The following treatments are tailored to the severity of the disease, ranging from early intervention to advanced gum disease:
- Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) as a professional cleaning are an essential first step to treat gum disease, remove tartar and bacteria beneath the gums, and prevent disease progression.
- Antibacterial therapy to target the infection
- Gum grafts or surgical treatment may be necessary for severe forms of gum disease, including advanced periodontitis and chronic periodontitis, to address bone loss, regenerate soft tissue, and restore more gum tissue.
- Personalized home care routines to maintain progress between visits
Don’t Become Another Statistic—Protect Your Gums Today
With nearly 1 in 2 adults affected, gum disease is far more common than most people realize—and it can do damage quietly. But the good news is: it’s also preventable and treatable with regular care.
If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, or you’ve noticed bleeding or tenderness in your gums, now’s the time to take action. Call our Woodland Hills dentist today at 818-491-7294 to schedule your consultation with Dr. John Chaves. We’re here to help you protect your smile—and your health—for years to come.