Periodontics & Gum Therapy
What is Gum Disease?
Gum (periodontal) disease is an infection of the supporting tissues of the teeth. It is typically caused by poor oral hygiene habits that allow plaque to build up on the teeth and harden, eventually affecting the gums.
Left untreated, gum disease can lead to a variety of oral health issues including inflamed and bleeding gums, a receding gum line, bacteria-filled pockets between the teeth and gums, and eventual bone loss.
Gum Disease Treatment
Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease. Based on your particular case, our dentists will work with you to create a treatment plan.
Preventive Gum Therapy
If a patient's gum disease is caught in the early stages, preventive therapy will be recommended by your dentist. Regular hygiene cleanings and exams are extremely important for maintaining the health and appearance of your gums.
By practicing good oral hygiene at home and eating a balanced diet, you can also significantly reduce your chances of ever developing gum disease.
Non-Surgical Gum Therapy
For patients with mild gum disease, a deep cleaning may be enough to reverse it. The dental hygienist will scrape away the plaque and tartar around and below the gum line, and smooth out any rough areas left behind through a process called scaling and root planing.
Once your periodontal treatment has been completed, our dental team will recommend regular exams and preventive therapy, around four times a year.