Gingivitis Treatment

Bleeding gums might seem like no big deal. Maybe you notice a little pink in the sink after brushing, or your floss comes out with a tinge of red. It’s easy to shrug off—until it becomes something bigger. That early-stage irritation is called gingivitis, and while it may start small, it’s often the first step toward advanced gum disease.

Here’s the important part: gingivitis is treatable and completely reversible. But it won’t go away on its own. As our periodontists at Lee Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and Periodontics have seenen how quickly untreated gingivitis can turn into long-term damage. The good news? With the right gingititis treatment plan in Cupertino CA and San Francisco CA, you can get your gums back on track—before they start causing permanent issues.

---

What Causes Gingivitis in the First Place?

Gingivitis is the body’s inflammatory response to bacteria and plaque buildup near the gumline. Over time, that soft plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the surrounding tissues. As your immune system fights back, your gums swell, bleed, and become more sensitive.

The biggest issue? Many people don’t realize it’s happening. It’s common for gingivitis to develop without any pain, making it easy to ignore until the symptoms become more obvious—or irreversible.

---

Recognizing the Signs: What to Watch For

Think of gingivitis as your gums’ early warning system. These symptoms may seem minor now, but they can be the first sign that something bigger is brewing beneath the surface.

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding during brushing or flossing
• Chronic bad breath (even with good hygiene)
• Gums that appear shiny or overly soft
• Gumline that looks inflamed or uneven

If you're noticing any of these symptoms, it’s time to act. The sooner gingivitis is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat—and the more you can avoid down the road.

---

How We Treat Gingivitis Professionally

Once we identify signs of gingivitis, we focus on eliminating the bacterial buildup that’s causing the inflammation. The treatment is simple, effective, and non-invasive—but timing is everything.

Here’s what a typical gingivitis treatment plan might include:

• Thorough professional cleaning: We remove plaque and tartar both above and just below the gumline.
• Localized antimicrobial therapy: In some cases, medicated rinses or antibiotics may be applied to calm inflammation and reduce bacteria.
• Personalized home care guidance: Small improvements in your daily routine—like switching brushes or modifying your flossing technique—can make a big difference.
• Ongoing monitoring: We schedule follow-ups to track your progress and make sure the inflammation doesn’t return.

This approach not only treats the issue—it helps prevent it from coming back stronger next time.

---

Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis: Why Early Treatment Matters

One of the most important reasons to treat gingivitis early is that once it progresses into periodontitis, it’s no longer reversible. Periodontitis affects not just your gums, but also the bone that supports your teeth. At that point, treatment becomes more complex—and in some cases, surgical intervention is necessary.

Gingivitis, on the other hand, can be completely resolved with early detection and consistent care. It’s not just about treating symptoms—it’s about stopping gum disease before it starts to cost you your smile.

---

You Can Keep It From Coming Back

After successful treatment, ongoing prevention is key. That includes regular cleanings, great at-home hygiene, and paying close attention to any early signs that inflammation may be creeping back in. Healthy gums don’t bleed. And if they do, that’s your signal to get checked.

Notice bleeding gums or inflammation?

Don’t ignore it. Let’s catch gingivitis early, treat it effectively, and set you up for long-term gum health. Schedule your consultation today at one of our locations in Cupertino CA and San Francisco CA and give your gums the care they deserve—before things go deeper than they should.