Gum Disease (Gingivitis)

Gingivitis is the medical term for early gum disease, or periodontal disease. In general, gum disease can be caused by long-term exposure to plaque, the sticky but colorless film on teeth that forms after eating or sleeping.

Gum disease originates in the gums, where infections form from harmful bacteria and other materials left behind from eating. Early warning signs include chronic bad breath, tender or painful swollen gums and minor bleeding after brushing or flossing. In many cases, however, gingivitis can go unnoticed. The infections can eventually cause the gums to separate from the teeth, creating even greater opportunities for infection and decay.

Although gum disease is the major cause of tooth loss in adults, in many cases it is avoidable.

If gingivitis goes untreated, more serious problems such as abscesses, bone loss or periodontitis can occur.

Periodontitis is treated in a number of ways. One method, called root planing, involved cleaning and scraping below the gum line to smooth the roots. If effective, this procedure helps the gums reattach themselves to the tooth structure.  However, not all instances of scaling and root planing successfully reattach the tooth to the gums.  Additional measures may be needed if the periodontal pockets persist after scaling and root planing

Pregnancy has also been known to cause a form of gingivitis. This has been linked to hormonal changes in the woman's body that promote plaque production.

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Tuesday:

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Testimonials

What Our Patients Say About Us

    I am grateful that I did not allow another dentist wanting to extract all my teeth to be replaced by implants or dentures, which I did not want.  Thankfully, Dr. Cervantes was willing and able to diagnose and repair my own teeth painlessly to maintain the integrity of my mouth.  I am very pleased with his care and skill.

    Marilyn Gehrig

    Dr. Cervantes has been our family dentist for 19 years.  His professionalism and expertise are commendable.  He is personable, sincere and always pays attention to our comfort during procedures.  The entire staff is very friendly, caring and attentive.  We feel welcomed and well taken care of after each visit.  We can’t imagine going anywhere else- and we drive more than 30 miles to get there!  “Thank you Dr, Cervantes and Staff”

    Jenny Condit

    I would like to offer this testimonial for Dr Hiram Cervantes. I and my children have been patients of Dr. Cervantes for over 20 yrs.

    Dr. Cervantes has been the most caring and gentle doctor I have had the pleasure of being a patient of.  His expertise and knowledge is most favorable.  I am happy to say that I will continue to be a patient of Dr. Cervantes, since he is much too young for retirement.

    Thank you

    Delma Sanchez