Periodontal Treatments

This deep cleaning procedure is the standard treatment for early to moderate gum disease. During scaling, we remove plaque and tartar from beneath your gumline where regular brushing can’t reach. Root planing smooths the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to reattach and allowing your gums to heal and reattach to your teeth. Most patients experience significant improvement in gum health after this non-surgical treatment.

After completing your initial periodontal treatment, ongoing maintenance appointments are essential to prevent gum disease from returning. These specialized cleanings occur more frequently than standard dental cleanings, typically every three to four months. During maintenance visits, we carefully monitor your gum health, remove any new buildup, and address problem areas before they become serious. Consistent maintenance is the key to long-term success in managing periodontal disease.

Laser therapy offers a minimally invasive option for treating gum disease. The laser precisely targets and removes diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact. This advanced technology reduces bleeding, minimizes discomfort, and promotes faster healing compared to traditional methods. Patients typically experience less swelling and shorter recovery times with laser treatment for periodontal disease.

While advanced periodontal disease cannot be completely cured, it can be effectively managed and controlled with proper treatment and maintenance. Professional periodontal treatments like scaling and root planing remove the infection and create conditions for your gums to heal. Consistent home care and regular maintenance appointments prevent the disease from progressing further.

Common signs include bleeding gums when you brush or floss, persistent bad breath, and gums that appear red, swollen, or tender. You might notice your teeth look longer because your gums are receding, or you may experience loose teeth in advanced cases. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an examination to determine if you have gum disease and need treatment.

Periodontal maintenance refers to specialized cleaning appointments for patients who have been treated for gum disease. These appointments occur more frequently than standard cleanings, usually every three to four months, to prevent the disease from returning. During maintenance visits, we thoroughly clean below the gumline, monitor your gum health, and address any areas of concern before they become problematic.

Preventing periodontal disease starts with excellent daily oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily and flossing once a day to remove plaque. Regular dental cleanings every six months allow your dentist to remove tartar buildup and catch early signs of gum disease. Avoiding tobacco, eating a balanced diet, and managing health conditions like diabetes also reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Genetics can play a role in your susceptibility to periodontal disease, with some people inheriting a predisposition to gum problems. However, heredity doesn’t guarantee you’ll develop the disease, as lifestyle factors like oral hygiene, smoking, and diet significantly influence your risk. If periodontal disease runs in your family, maintaining excellent oral care and regular dental visits becomes even more important for prevention.