Healthy gums are the foundation of every strong smile. At Laguna Heights Dental, periodontal therapy in Laguna Niguel, CA helps restore gum health, stop infection, and protect your teeth from long-term damage. Dr. Nazita Gaff, a fourth-generation dentist and Tufts University graduate, provides gentle, effective treatments that combine science, comfort, and compassion.
Patients from neighborhoods like Bear Brand Ranch, Colinas de Capistrano, and Niguel West trust Dr. Gaff for care that focuses on both comfort and prevention. Her approach to periodontal therapy helps patients regain healthy gums and maintain long-term oral wellness.
Why Gum Health Matters
Gum disease begins quietly but can cause major problems if left untreated. It starts as gingivitis, where gums become red or swollen and may bleed during brushing. Without treatment, it can progress to periodontitis, a condition that damages the bone supporting your teeth.
Healthy gums are essential for overall well-being. Research links periodontal disease to heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. By keeping your gums healthy, you’re also protecting your body’s natural balance.
Dr. Gaff emphasizes early detection and preventive care, helping patients understand that treating gum problems early is easier, less invasive, and more effective than waiting until advanced symptoms develop.
Signs You May Need Periodontal Therapy
Many people don’t realize they have gum disease until it becomes serious. Recognizing the warning signs early can make a significant difference. Common symptoms include:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing.
- Chronic bad breath or a metallic taste.
- Receding gums or teeth appearing longer.
- Loose or shifting teeth.
- Red, swollen, or tender gum tissue.
If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gaff right away. Early treatment can prevent bone loss, restore gum health, and help you avoid tooth loss.
How Periodontal Therapy Works
Periodontal therapy is tailored to the severity of your gum condition. Dr. Gaff uses gentle, evidence-based methods to remove infection, clean deep pockets, and restore tissue health.
Treatment steps may include:
- Scaling and root planing: Deep cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria.
- Laser therapy: Targeted treatment to disinfect and encourage faster healing.
- Antibacterial irrigation: Application of medication to eliminate infection and support recovery.
- Ongoing maintenance: Regular visits to keep gums healthy and prevent recurrence.
These treatments are comfortable, minimally invasive, and designed to save your natural teeth. Most patients report less inflammation and improved comfort within weeks of therapy.
Comparing Periodontal Treatment Options
| Treatment Type | Purpose | Best For | Benefits |
| Scaling & Root Planing | Deep cleaning below gums | Mild to moderate gum disease | Reduces bacteria and inflammation |
| Laser Therapy | Gentle bacterial removal | Sensitive patients | Promotes healing with minimal discomfort |
| Maintenance Therapy | Routine follow-up care | Long-term gum health | Prevents relapse and supports stability |
Dr. Gaff evaluates each case carefully, recommending the most effective plan based on your needs. Her blend of precision and compassion ensures optimal results for every patient.
The Benefits of Periodontal Therapy
Periodontal therapy goes beyond saving your gums, it improves your entire oral ecosystem. Healthy gums anchor teeth securely and protect underlying bone from damage.
Key benefits include:
- Reduced bleeding and inflammation.
- Stronger support for teeth and restorations.
- Fresher breath and healthier tissue.
- Lower risk of systemic diseases linked to inflammation.
Patients often notice not just healthier gums, but also more confidence in their smiles. With proper care and follow-up, periodontal health can be fully restored.
Maintaining Gum Health After Treatment
After periodontal therapy, maintaining daily habits is the key to lasting success. Dr. Gaff and her team guide patients through personalized home-care routines designed to strengthen results.
To keep gums healthy:
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss or use interdental brushes daily.
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Schedule regular periodontal maintenance visits.
Patients in communities like Palmilla, Monarch Point, and Laguna Heights benefit from ongoing care that keeps their gums and teeth stable for life.
The Dr. Nazita Gaff Difference
Dr. Nazita Gaff, DMD (License #53334), has over 30 years of experience restoring oral health with empathy and expertise. She is trained in laser-assisted periodontal therapy through the Academy of Laser Dentistry and continues to expand her knowledge in advanced gum treatments.
Her patients appreciate her calm demeanor, precision, and emphasis on prevention. Dr. Gaff’s holistic approach connects gum care with overall wellness, helping patients achieve healthier smiles and improved quality of life.
Taking the Next Step
Healthy gums protect your smile and your overall health. If you’ve noticed bleeding, swelling, or sensitivity, it may be time for periodontal therapy. At Laguna Heights Dental, Dr. Nazita Gaff combines modern technology and gentle expertise to restore gum health safely and comfortably.
Schedule your appointment today by calling (949) 363-1200 and take the first step toward healthier gums and a stronger smile. For additional information about gum health and preventive care, explore the educational blog at Laguna Heights Dental.
