Periodontal
Treatments
Keep your gums happy and healthy.
What is
Periodontitis?
Gum disease (periodontitis) is an extremely common condition, affecting nearly three out of four adults at some point during the lifetime. Periodontal disease is caused by bacterial plaque (a sticky film that continually forms at the gumline). If plaque is not adequately removed with routine brushing and flossing, it hardens due to minerals found in the saliva. Once mineralized, plaque is known as tartar (calculus), which is firmly attached to the tooth and root surface – often under the gumline. Deeper pockets around the tooth roots form due to chronic inflammation caused by the bacteria in plaque and tartar, making the infection difficult to reach with a standard cleaning or at-home oral care.
What to expect
during your treatment
Treatment for gum disease requires a deeper cleaning to reach areas below the surface of the gum. A local anesthetic is often used for comfort measures prior to removal of tartar from and smoothing the root surface under the gumline. After an initial deep cleaning, we often recommend more frequent maintenance cleanings at 3-month intervals until the disease is improved to the point that routine home care and standard cleanings are sufficient.
We take time
to answer your questions
Take a look through our most frequently asked questions to alleviate any confusion you may have about periodontal trreatments at Carter | Callaway.
How would I know if I may have gum disease?
Painful, swollen, or bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, or loose teeth may be symptoms of gum disease. Sensitivity of the gums to temperature of food or drink may also indicate a problem.
What happens if gum disease is not properly treated?
Gum disease/periodontitis is a chronic condition that leads to loss of support for the teeth. Over a period of months to years, recession of the gum and supporting bone leads to mobility, and eventual loss of teeth.
What can I do to stop the progression of gum disease?
Deep cleanings, also sometimes referred to as scaling and root planning (SRP) are typically needed to adequately treat gum disease. During this type of cleaning, tartar on the root surface just under the margin of the gum is removed by your hygienist. A long-acting local antibiotic may be placed in deeper pockets around the tooth roots
What other risk factors are associated with gum disease?
Certain factors increase the risk for gum disease / periodontitis, including:
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Crooked teeth / crowding
- Genetics
- Stress
Is gum disease harmful to other parts of the body?
Chronic inflammation of the gums is associated with a number of other systemic conditions, including:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease and high blood pressure
- Pancreatic cancer
- Respiratory disease, including complications from COVID-19
- Cognitive decline / Alzheimer’s Disease
Transform your smile
Whether you need a routine check-up, cosmetic enhancement, or specialized treatment, we’re here to provide personalized care that exceeds your expectations.