Gum Disease Treatment and Insurance Options with a Periodontist in Sherman Oaks

When most people think about their oral health, their first thought is usually cavities. But there’s another condition that affects nearly half of adults in the U.S. gum disease. Gum disease often starts without symptoms, but it can lead to serious issues if ignored, such as bad breath and tooth loss.

At Clove Dental in Sherman Oaks, we regularly see patients who come in for routine checkups only to discover the early warning signs of gum disease. Many are surprised to learn that their dental insurance covers a significant portion of treatment, making professional periodontal care more affordable than expected.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It starts when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along the gumline. If not removed through brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, plaque hardens into tartar. This irritates the gums and triggers inflammation.

There are two main stages:

• Gingivitis: the early stage, marked by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily.
• Periodontitis: the advanced stage, where gums pull away from the teeth, bone loss occurs, and teeth may loosen or shift.

The tricky part is that gum disease doesn’t always cause pain at first, which is why many patients don’t realize they have it until it becomes severe.

Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

If you notice any of the following, it may be time to see a periodontist in Sherman Oaks for an evaluation:

• Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
• Receding gums, making teeth look longer than before
• Loose or sensitive teeth
• Swollen or tender gums

Even if your symptoms feel mild, catching gum disease early can prevent the need for more invasive treatments later.

What Happens During a Gum Disease Visit?

When patients come in with gum concerns, here’s what they can expect:

1. Thorough Examination: We’ll check your gums, measure pocket depths, and use imaging to look at bone health.
2. Cleaning & Treatment: For gingivitis, a professional cleaning may be enough. For more advanced cases, scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning) helps remove tartar below the gumline.
3. Personalized Care Plan: Every mouth is different. We’ll create a plan that might include more frequent cleanings, antibiotic therapy, or referrals for advanced periodontal procedures.

Our goal is not only to treat the disease but to teach you how to maintain healthy gums at home.

Insurance Coverage for Gum Disease

One of the most common questions we get is: “Will my insurance cover periodontal treatment?”

The encouraging news is that most dental insurance plans do cover gum disease treatment, at least in part. Depending on your plan, you may be covered for:

• Regular periodontal maintenance visits
• Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning)
• Surgery for severe periodontal disease

Our Sherman Oaks office has an experienced insurance team that helps patients maximize their benefits. We review your coverage, explain your out-of-pocket costs clearly, and file claims directly with your provider so you don’t have to stress about the paperwork.

For those without insurance, we also offer flexible payment options to ensure cost isn’t a barrier to healthy gums.

Why Choose Clove Dental for Periodontal Care in Sherman Oaks?

While there are many dentists in the Valley, patients choose us because we combine advanced periodontal care with patient-friendly conveniences. Our office is located in Sherman Oaks with free parking available, making visits hassle-free.

We’re also proud to have specialists like Dr. Sanchita Mehra, a board-certified periodontist, on our team. With years of experience treating gum disease at all stages, Dr. Mehra brings expertise and compassion to every patient she sees. Alongside our general dentists, she ensures patients receive comprehensive care all under one roof.

Prevention is the Best Medicine

While we’re here to treat gum disease, our ultimate goal is to help patients prevent it altogether. Here are a few daily habits that make a big difference:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush
• Floss at least once daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist
• Don’t skip regular checkups and professional cleanings
• Quit smoking, which is a major risk factor for gum disease

Small steps at home, combined with professional care, can help you avoid the discomfort and costs associated with advanced periodontal disease.

Final Thoughts

Gum disease may be common, but it doesn’t have to control your smile. With early detection, expert treatment, and the right insurance coverage, you can keep your gums and teeth healthy for years to come.

If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, bad breath, or other warning signs, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with our team at Clove Dental today. Our Sherman Oaks dentists and periodontists are ready to provide gentle, effective care, and our insurance experts will help you make the most of your benefits.

Your gums deserve as much attention as your teeth. Take the first step toward a healthier smile today.