Gum disease, or more correctly called "periodontal disease", is a bacterial infection in the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.  It can be divided into several categories.

The first stage is called "gingivitis" and is characterized by gum tissue that is red, puffy, and bleeds easily when touched with a toothbrush, floss or dental instrument.

The second, third, and fourth stages are initial, moderate, and advanced "periodontal disease", respectively.  These stages are different from gingivitis because the infection has destroyed and dissolved the bone supporting the teeth, causing eventual tooth loss.  At Burbank Dental Care the treatment is more involved at these stages, usually consisting of a special cleaning with anesthesia and sometimes gum surgery.

Please call us at (818) 955-7788 to see if you qualify for one of our "Soft Tissue Management" programs in order to avoid gum surgery.