Dental hygienist performing a dental cleaning procedure on a patient s teeth.

Periodontal Treatment

At Signature Dental Care, we prioritize not only the health of your teeth but also the health of your gums. Healthy gums are essential for a strong foundation and a beautiful smile. Periodontal (gum) disease is a common issue that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and other health concerns. Our team provides comprehensive periodontal treatments to manage and treat gum disease, restoring and maintaining optimal gum health.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It begins as gingivitis, where gums become red, swollen, and may bleed easily. Without treatment, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, a more severe stage where gums start to recede, and the bone supporting your teeth can deteriorate. Our goal at Signature Dental Care is to diagnose and treat periodontal disease early to prevent complications.

Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Recognizing the symptoms of gum disease is crucial to seeking treatment early. Common signs include:

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums
  • Bleeding while brushing or flossing
  • Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
  • Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Changes in your bite or the fit of your dentures

If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with us for an evaluation. Early intervention is key to effective treatment and maintaining a healthy smile.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

Several factors can contribute to the development of periodontal disease, including:

  • Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup, which is a major cause of gum disease.
  • Smoking and Tobacco Use: Tobacco products can harm gum tissue and reduce the mouth’s ability to heal, making it more susceptible to infection.
  • Genetics: Some people may be more prone to gum disease due to family history.
  • Hormonal Changes: Changes such as pregnancy, menopause, and menstruation can increase gum sensitivity and risk of gum disease.
  • Chronic Conditions: Certain conditions, like diabetes and immune disorders, can heighten the risk of gum disease.

Types of Periodontal Treatments We Offer

At Signature Dental Care, we offer a range of periodontal treatments based on the severity of your condition:

  • Scaling and Root Planing: A deep-cleaning method that removes plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gumline. This treatment smooths root surfaces, helping gums reattach to the teeth.
  • Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate bacteria and reduce infection in the gums.
  • Gum Surgery: For advanced cases, surgical options such as flap surgery or grafting may be recommended to restore gum health and bone support.
  • Maintenance Cleanings: For those with a history of gum disease, we provide more frequent cleanings to manage the condition and prevent recurrence.

Our team will assess your specific needs and recommend the best treatment approach to restore and maintain healthy gums.

Benefits of Periodontal Treatment

Proper treatment and management of gum disease can bring many benefits, including:

  • Healthier Gums: Reducing inflammation and infection restores gum health and protects surrounding teeth.
  • Improved Oral Hygiene: Deep cleaning and maintenance help prevent further plaque and tartar buildup.
  • Protection Against Tooth Loss: Treating gum disease can help preserve the bone structure that supports teeth, lowering the risk of tooth loss.
  • Enhanced Aesthetics: Healthier gums can improve the overall appearance of your smile.
  • Better Overall Health: Treating gum disease can reduce the risk of systemic health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes, that are linked to periodontal infections.

What to Expect During Your Periodontal Treatment

Our periodontal treatment process begins with a thorough examination and assessment of your gum health, including digital imaging if necessary. After diagnosis, we will discuss your options and tailor a treatment plan that best fits your needs. Periodontal treatment can be either surgical or non-surgical. We’re here to answer any questions you may have and provide guidance on maintaining gum health after treatment.

Preventing Periodontal Disease

Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are the best ways to prevent periodontal disease. Here are some steps you can take to keep your gums healthy:

  • Brush and Floss Daily: Brush at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and along the gumline.
  • Regular Dental Cleanings: Professional cleanings help remove buildup in areas that are difficult to reach with brushing and flossing alone.
  • Quit/Avoid Smoking: Avoiding tobacco products can significantly reduce your risk of developing gum disease.
  • Maintain a Balanced Diet: A healthy diet supports your immune system, helping to keep your gums healthy.

Why Choose Signature Dental Care for Periodontal Treatment?

Signature Dental Care is dedicated to providing exceptional periodontal care. Our experienced team uses advanced techniques and technology to deliver effective gum disease treatment in a comfortable environment. We take a personalized approach to each patient’s care, ensuring that you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment to protect your oral health.

Schedule Your Periodontal Evaluation Today

If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or are due for a periodontal checkup, contact us to schedule an appointment. Let us help you maintain healthy gums and preserve your beautiful smile!

Frequently Asked Questions

How common is gum disease?

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Most people don’t realize that periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every two adults over the age of 30 in the United States has periodontal disease.

What causes gum disease?

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You may be surprised to learn that the human mouth is home to a wide variety of microbes. The fact is that over 700 different strains of bacteria have been detected in the oral cavity. Although some of these bacteria are beneficial, others are harmful to oral health. Without proper oral hygiene and routine dental care, these harmful bacteria can cause tooth decay and gum disease, compromising both your oral health and overall wellbeing.

Are there other risk factors for periodontal disease?

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In addition to inadequate oral hygiene and infrequent professional care, other factors, including smoking, genetic tendencies, and unchecked diabetes, can contribute to the escalation of periodontal disease.

Why are healthy gums so important?

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Your gums and teeth have an interdependent relationship, which means healthy teeth depend on the support of healthy gums. Also, taking care of your smile does more than keep your teeth and gums in optimal condition; good oral health also supports systemic health. In addition to being the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, researchers are finding more and more links between periodontal disease and a number of medical problems, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory problems, and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as pre-term and low birth-weight babies.

What are the symptoms of gingivitis?

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If you notice that your gums are bleeding with the slightest pressure while brushing or flossing, it’s a sign of gingivitis. Although gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, it can easily be reversed with deeper cleanings as well as an improved regimen of oral hygiene at home.

What happens as gum disease progresses?

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In the absence of professional treatment and better home care, gingivitis progresses to the next stage, which is known as periodontitis. In this stage, the connective tissue and bone that hold the teeth in place begin to break down with an increase in pocketing between the teeth and bone, gum recession, and bone loss. Without proper treatment by your dentist, periodontitis will progress from a mild to moderate loss of supporting tissue to the destruction of the bone around the teeth.

What are the best ways to manage and treat more advanced gum disease or periodontitis?

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Although gingivitis can often be reversed with improved oral hygiene and professional cleanings, as periodontal disease advances, more extensive procedures are required to halt its progression. Based on a complete assessment of your periodontal health and a review of possible contributing factors, our office will recommend the best options in care. Treatment for periodontitis may include a series of deeper cleanings known as root planing and scaling, surgical procedures to reduce pocket depth, bone or tissue grafts, laser procedures, or antimicrobial medications.

How much does periodontal treatment cost?

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The cost of care depends on the type of procedures required to restore your periodontal health. If you have dental insurance, plans often cover treatment to prevent gum disease as well as many procedures to treat the various stages of gum disease. Our goal is to help patients restore and maintain good oral health. We do all we can to help you begin care without additional stress or delay. Our business office works with you to maximize your benefits and provide easier, more convenient payment options.

What is the best way to prevent gum disease?

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By seeing our office regularly for care and doing your best to eat a healthy diet and practice good oral hygiene, you can keep your smile in tip-top shape as well as protect your overall wellbeing.

Why choose the office of Signature Dental Care for care?

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At the office of Signature Dental Care, we provide a comprehensive range of services to address all your oral healthcare needs. You can rest assured that your smile is in the best of hands at our office. Our skilled and experienced team maintains a position at the forefront of advances in care and remains dedicated to providing the highest quality of skilled and compassionate treatment.

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