What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums that can spread to the supporting bone structure around the teeth that ranges from mild gingivitis to advance periodontitis.
For patients with early, moderate, or advanced periodontitis, a regular cleaning isn’t enough. Scaling and root planing, commonly known as a “deep cleaning”, is needed to remove all plaque, tartar, and bacteria surrounding the affected teeth. Typically more time is required for the hygienist to perform scaling and root planing, and pain relief options are available.

Healing Your Gums | Our Approach to Periodontics

If you are suffering from periodontal disease, one of the things that can be quite uncomfortable is taking the first-step to visit the Dentist.  We understand that more complex dental care can be especially intimidating and invasive.  Our patients can rest assured that we will make the experience of restoring your gum health as comfortable as possible.   Patients are in great hands with our gentle hygienist, who will walk you through the steps to achieving ideal gum health.  Our team is well versed in scaling and root planing, and is known for being gentle during this difficult process.

Six weeks after scaling and root planing is completed, the teeth and tissue are checked to see if improvement in tissue tone and attachment have occurred. At this follow up appointment the patient, hygienist, and dentist discuss the next course of action. Generally more frequent maintenance cleanings are required.
In patients who may have extreme cases of periodontitis, referral to a periodontist (a dentist that specializes in periodontal disease) may be necessary. 
We guide our patients through every step, and answer the basic and complex questions regarding gum disease and treatment.