Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an inflammatory infection of the gums and supporting bone. It begins when plaque—a sticky biofilm of bacteria—collects around your teeth. If not removed through brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar and triggers gum inflammation. The earliest stage, gingivitis, is limited to the gums and is fully reversible with improved home care and professional cleanings. Without treatment, it can progress to periodontitis, where bacteria penetrate deeper and destroy bone and connective tissue. Advanced periodontitis is marked by severe recession, pus and tooth mobility, often culminating in tooth loss.
Our team includes knowledgeable periodontists with advanced training in diagnosing and treating gum disease tailored to your needs.
We use scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar with minimal discomfort under local anesthesia and calming techniques.
When deeper infection persists, we provide surgical options such as pocket reduction and grafting to restore periodontal health.
Same-day visits, evening/weekend hours, 20 locations, and transparent pricing — including a $49 exam — help you access care quickly.

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| Stage | Reversibility | Key Symptoms | Summary | Our Recommended Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gingivitis
(Early Stage) |
Fully reversible with better brushing, flossing and professional cleanings | • Swollen, tender or red gums • Bleeding when brushing or flossing • Mild gum recession • Persistent bad breath | Inflammation is limited to the gums and can return to normal with routine cleanings and improved home care. | Professional Cleaning & Exam |
| Periodontitis (Moderate Stage) | Not curable, but progression can be slowed and controlled | • Red, swollen gums that bleed easily • Recession and exposed roots • Loose teeth or a shifting bite • Discomfort when chewing | Infection reaches deeper layers and begins to damage bone. Ongoing care is needed to stop further damage. | Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) |
| Advanced Periodontitis (Severe Stage) | Irreversible; long-term stabilization is the goal | • Deep recession and bone loss • Pus along the gum line • Severe sensitivity • Loose or missing teeth | Advanced infection with significant tissue breakdown. Fast treatment is needed to protect remaining teeth. | Laser Therapy / Surgical Care / Implants |
Gum disease is more than a minor annoyance — it is a chronic infection that can damage the bone and tissue supporting your teeth. Left unchecked, it can lead to loose teeth, painful chewing and even tooth loss. Periodontal disease has also been associated with systemic health issues such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Because the condition often develops without pain, many people don’t realise they have gum disease until significant damage has occurred. Regular dental checkups and deep cleanings remove hidden plaque and tartar, reduce pocket depths and stop the infection from worsening. Early detection and prompt treatment are key to preserving both your oral and overall health.
5 Signs You Need Gum Therapy Now
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding when brushing
- Receding gums (teeth look longer)
- Loose teeth
- Persistent bad breath
Laser periodontal therapy uses concentrated light energy to gently remove inflamed tissue and destroy bacteria inside periodontal pockets. Compared with traditional surgery, lasers reduce bleeding, swelling and discomfort, and promote faster healing. Lasers can be used alone or alongside scaling & root planing to disinfect deep pockets and stimulate regeneration.
Benefits of Laser Gum Surgery
- No cutting and no stitches — the laser targets diseased tissue without needing an incision.
- Faster healing — patients usually return to normal habits sooner than with traditional surgery.
- Minimal discomfort — most people report mild soreness instead of sharp pain.
- Lower risk of infection — the laser helps sterilize the treatment site.
- Better tissue preservation — healthy gums are left untouched.
- Helpful alternative to traditional gum surgery — often compared with LANAP-style therapy.
People often worry that their gums are too damaged to improve. In most cases, treatment can help at any stage. Early care brings the quickest results, but moderate and advanced gum disease can still be stabilized.
Age doesn’t limit your options. Whether you’re in your thirties or seventies, we tailor a plan that fits your condition. From deep cleanings to surgical care, we guide you through steps that protect your smile and support healthier gums.
Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing): Mild discomfort after scaling & root planing usually resolves within 1–2 days. Rinse with warm salt water and use over‑the‑counter pain relievers as needed. Soft foods are recommended for the first day.
Pocket Reduction Surgery: Tenderness and swelling can continue for about a week. Keep the area clean as instructed and avoid chewing on the treated side. Stitches are typically removed in 7–10 days.
Gum Grafts: The graft sites may feel sore for 7–14 days. Avoid brushing the grafted area initially and follow the dentist’s instructions for rinsing and diet. Call us if pain or swelling worsens.




Find quick answers to the most common questions our patients ask.
Gum disease is an infection of the gums and bone that support your teeth. It often begins with bleeding or swollen gums and can progress to bone loss and loose teeth if left untreated.
Common signs include bleeding while brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, bad breath that does not go away, and mild gum recession. Many people do not feel pain at first.
If you notice deep gum pockets, loose teeth, pus, or ongoing bleeding, the infection may be advanced. A dental exam is the only way to measure how far the disease has progressed.
Yes. When caught early, gum disease can often improve with deep cleaning, better home care, and regular follow-up visits. Treatment works best before bone damage begins.
Untreated gum disease can lead to bone loss, shifting teeth, tooth loss, and ongoing infection. It may also affect your overall health.
Gum disease is caused by bacteria that build up under the gums. Smoking, diabetes, genetics, stress, and poor oral care can raise your risk.
Treatment may include deep cleaning, medication placed under the gums, or surgical care for deeper infection. The right approach depends on how advanced the disease is.
Most treatments are done with local numbing, so discomfort is limited. Mild soreness afterward is common and usually improves within a few days.
Yes. Bacteria trapped under the gums often cause ongoing bad breath. Treating the infection and keeping up with follow-up visits usually helps control it.
Many patients need visits every three to four months. These visits help control bacteria and reduce the chance of the infection returning.
Many dental plans help cover part of gum disease treatment, including deep cleaning and maintenance visits. Coverage varies by plan, and our team can review your benefits with you.
If you have bleeding gums, pain, swelling, or loose teeth, you can call (562) 242-1411 — phones are answered 24/7 — or visit
https://goldcoastdental.com/book-now to ask questions or schedule a visit.
We know a great dental experience goes beyond clinical care. Here’s how we make your visits comfortable and stress‑free.
Convenient Scheduling
We’re open seven days a week with evening and weekend appointments at multiple locations. Same‑day visits are available so you never have to wait for relief.
Affordable Excellence
High‑quality dental care should be within reach. We accept most PPO and many HMO plans, offer interest‑free payment plans and have in‑house specials for new patients.
Relaxing Visits
Our modern offices feature state‑of‑the‑art technology, comfortable treatment rooms and entertainment options to help you feel at ease throughout your visit.
Book now and save with our limited‑time offers:
Free X‑rays, exam and consultation. New patients only.
PPO, HMO, or no insurance? We help you understand your available options before treatment begins. We work with most major PPO and HMO plans. If you don’t have insurance, we explain in-house financing and current new-patient offers, including our $49 new patient special.
Many offices are open 7 AM–7 PM, including weekends, for your convenience.
Hours may vary by location. Please call the office to confirm availability.
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Please call (562) 242‑1411 or find your nearest dentist here.