Periodontal Therapy at Model Dentistry Greenwell Springs

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It begins with the accumulation of plaque and tartar on the teeth, leading to inflammation of the gums, or gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that affects the bone and connective tissue, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Gum disease is often painless in its early stages, so it’s important to visit Model Dentistry regularly for Dental Cleanings to catch any signs of gum disease early.

Common Signs of Gum Disease

If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with our team for a thorough evaluation:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Gum recession (pulling away from the teeth)
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pain when chewing
• Sensitive or tender gums

Gum disease can affect your overall health as well, with links to systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. This makes early detection and treatment of periodontal issues critical for both your oral and general health.

Periodontal Therapy at Model Dentistry

At Model Dentistry Greenwell Springs, our periodontal therapy services are designed to treat gum disease at every stage. Whether you have mild gingivitis or more advanced periodontitis, we offer personalized treatment plans to restore your gum health and prevent further damage.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is the first line of treatment for gum disease. This non-surgical procedure is designed to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line, cleaning the pockets around your teeth and preventing bacteria from causing further infection.

• Scaling: We carefully remove plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth, especially below the gumline where regular brushing and flossing cannot reach.
• Root Planing: The root surfaces of the teeth are smoothed to help the gums reattach to the teeth and prevent further bacteria buildup.

This deep cleaning procedure may require more than one visit, depending on the extent of the gum disease. After treatment, we will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure your gums are healing properly.

Laser Gum Treatment

For patients with more advanced gum disease, we may recommend laser gum therapy. This advanced technique allows for precise removal of infected gum tissue while promoting faster healing and reducing the need for traditional surgery. Laser treatment is minimally invasive, leading to less discomfort and quicker recovery times.

Periodontal Maintenance

Once gum disease has been treated, ongoing maintenance is critical to prevent a recurrence. We recommend more frequent dental cleanings, typically every three to four months, as part of your periodontal maintenance program. These visits allow us to monitor the health of your gums, remove any plaque or tartar buildup, and ensure that your gums stay healthy.

During these visits, our hygienists may also provide personalized oral hygiene instructions to help you maintain excellent gum health at home.

Preventing Gum Disease

While periodontal therapy can effectively treat gum disease, prevention is always the best approach. Regular dental exams, along with good oral hygiene habits at home, can help you avoid the onset of gum disease. Here are some tips to maintain healthy gums:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque between your teeth
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in your mouth
• Eat a balanced diet and avoid sugary snacks
• Schedule regular checkups with Model Dentistry

If you are at higher risk for gum disease due to factors such as smoking, diabetes, or a family history of gum disease, we will work with you to develop a personalized prevention plan.