Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Gum disease has two primary stages. If diagnosed and treated in the first stage, the condition can be reversed and tooth loss can usually be prevented. In order to prevent gum disease,practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist for cleanings and check-ups twice a year.

This stage only affects the soft tissue of the gums, and the patient may not experience any discomfort. Although the symptoms may be very mild, it is important to diagnose gum disease in this early stage before it progresses to periodontitis.

Periodontitis is the name for more advanced periodontal disease and if permitted to progress to this point, not only the gums are affected but the bone structures supporting the teeth will be compromised.

A build-up of bacteria causes Gingivitis. In its early stages, inflammation around the gums is observable, with gum tissues appearing red and swollen. Gums that are easily irritated or that bleed during tooth brushing indicate the presence of Gingivitis. Removal of the plaque buildup is necessary to prevent the development of gum disease.

As the gums become more inflamed, they start to pull away from the teeth, forming spaces known as periodontal pockets. Food, bacteria, and plaque begin to collect in the pockets, leading to infection. The surrounding bone becomes damaged both by bacterial toxins and by the immune systemsresponse to infection.

Dr. Jeff Goodman received his undergraduate degree from UC Davis and his dental degree from UCLA. He has been in private practice in Rolling Hills Estates since 1989. Dr. Goodmans continuing education at the Pankey Institute, Seattle Study Club, and other preeminent institutions has focused on the latest state-of-the-art cosmetic life like dentistry techniques as well as the replacement of missing teeth with implants and creating straighter teeth and more beautiful smiles with Invisalign. His practice has grown to include offering his patients solutions to snoring and sleep apnea. His goal and interest for all his patients is to create a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums and, a good nights rest.

Dr. Goodman enjoys spending his free time with family and friends, and exercises daily to maintain his health and well-being. Hes an avid soccer and basketball fan, and is sometimes seen riding horses alongside his wife Valerie. Their oldest son Grey is also a UCLA alumni, and their youngest son Cade graduated from California Polytechnic University San Luis Obispo.

Dr. Norton Donner grew up in Los Angeles and attended the University of Southern California where he received his undergraduate degree. He went on to Northwestern University where he graduated with his dental degree. Following dental school he served in the US Army for two years at Fort Carson, CO, where he rotated through the dental specialties finishing up at the base hospital where he treated ranking officers and retired personnel.

Dr. Donners dental interest has been centered around smile enhancement, reconstructive dentistry, and excellent oral health. Providing excellent services like dental implants. To that end he attended a six year post graduate program at the prestigious Pankey Institute for Advanced Dentistry plus two additional sessions on aesthetics. He is a member of the Seattle Study Club and works closely with his partners using state of the art equipment and procedures providing a spa-like experience.

He is a past president of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Rotary Club and a past president of the South Bay Trojan Club. He has two daughters, a son, one granddaughter, two dogs, and a parrot. He enjoys camping and hiking with his family, and biking on the strand.