Periodontal Therapy

Did you know over 57 systemic diseases are linked to periodontal disease? People with periodontal disease (an infection of the gums and bones surrounding the teeth) are more likely to suffer a stroke, heart disease, uncontrolled diabetes, and some cancers!

We take periodontal disease very seriously since it can cause serious health issues beyond just your teeth. If you suspect you have periodontal disease, contact us today for a comprehensive examination.

Protect Your Smile

A patient being treated for gum disease

What is Periodontal Therapy?

Periodontal therapy is a specialized treatment for gum disease. It aims to control the infection, prevent further damage to your gums and jaw bone, and ultimately keep your teeth healthy. It's like giving your gums a complete overhaul to restore their strength and function.

There are two main approaches:

  • Non-surgical therapy is like a supercharged cleaning. It removes plaque and tartar buildup, especially from the deeper areas between your teeth and gums. This helps eliminate the source of irritation and infection. Your dentist might also smooth out the tooth roots to make it harder for plaque to stick in the future - this is call a root planing and scaling.

  • Surgical therapy is used for more advanced gum disease. This might involve carefully reflecting the gum tissue to access deeper areas for cleaning and potentially even bone grafting to rebuild any lost bone support for your teeth.

The good news is that with early intervention, most gum disease can be addressed with non-surgical methods. Healthy gums are crucial for a bright smile and a strong foundation for your teeth.

Signs You May Have Gum Disease

Gum disease is essentially an infection of the gum tissue. Here are some signs that you might want us to check out:

  • Gum woes: This is the most common giveaway. Keep an eye out for gums that are red, swollen, or tender. Healthy gums should be firm and pink.

  • Bleeding gums: Brushing or flossing shouldn't make your gums bleed. If you notice blood, it's a sign that something's going on.

  • Receding gums: Over time, gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, making them look longer.This can also create pockets where bacteria can thrive.

  • Bad breath (halitosis): While bad breath can have other causes, it can also be a sign of gum disease. Persistent bad breath that doesn't improve with brushing or mouthwash is a good reason to see a dentist.

  • Loose teeth: If your teeth feel loose or wiggly, it could be a sign of advanced gum disease. Don't ignore this one!

If you're experiencing any of these signs, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with one of our dentists in Horicon, WI. Early detection and treatment of gum disease can help prevent serious problems down the line.

How It Works

Here's how it tackles the problem:

  1. Deep Cleaning: The first step is to remove the plaque and tartar (calculus) buildup, especially from those tricky areas below the gum line where brushing can't quite reach. These are a breeding ground for the bacteria that cause gum disease. Our dentists will use specialized tools like scalers and ultrasonic devices to gently scrape away these deposits.

  2. Smoothing Things Out: Once the plaque and tartar are gone, we might need to smooth out the rough surfaces of your tooth roots. This creates a less welcoming environment for plaque to stick to in the future.

  3. Enhancing Defense Mechanisms: In some cases, we might recommend additional measures to further combat the infection. This could involve using antibacterial mouth rinses to help control bacteria levels or even antibiotics to target specific problem areas.

By eliminating the harmful bacteria, smoothing the tooth surfaces, and potentially providing extra support, non-surgical therapy helps your gums heal, reduce inflammation, and reattach firmly to your teeth. This creates a healthier environment for your teeth and prevents further bone loss.

Remember, this therapy is most effective in the early stages of gum disease. So, if you notice any signs of gum trouble, seeing Dr. Megan for a checkup and potential non-surgical treatment is the best course of action to keep your smile healthy and strong.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • These are both stages of gum disease, but with key differences. Gingivitis is the earlier stage, causing inflamed, red gums that bleed easily. It's reversible with good oral hygiene and professional cleaning. Periodontitis is more severe, affecting the gums and bone supporting your teeth. It can lead to loose teeth and tooth loss if left untreated.

  • Non-surgical therapy is generally uncomfortable but not typically painful. Dr. Megan will likely use local nesthesia to numb the area and keep you comfortable.

  • Non-surgical therapy is usually done in one to four appointments, depending on the severity of your gum disease.

  • Unfortunately, gum disease cannot be completely cured. However, with effective periodontal therapy and consistent good oral hygiene, you can manage the condition and prevent it from progressing. This will help you maintain healthy gums and teeth for the long term.

  • Your gums might be slightly tender for a few days after treatment. Dr. Megan will give you specific instructions on how to care for your teeth and gums during recovery. This may involve using a special mouthwash and following a soft food diet for a short period.

Book an appointment.

Don’t let gum disease destroy your oral health. Contact Preferred Dental Partners to make an appointment for periodontal therapy at our Horicon or Beaver Dam locations.