Periodontics at Concord Dental

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common condition that can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated. It starts with plaque buildup, which can cause inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). If not addressed, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can result in tooth loss and damage to the supporting bone structure.

At Concord Dental, we offer a range of treatments to manage and reverse gum disease. Our initial approach often includes scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the root surfaces to promote healing. For more advanced cases, we may recommend additional treatments such as antimicrobial therapy, which involves the application of medications to reduce bacterial infection and inflammation. Regular follow-up visits are crucial to monitor your progress and ensure the health of your gums.

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that is essential for treating gum disease. This non-surgical treatment involves two steps: scaling, which removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gum line, and root planing, which smooths the root surfaces to help the gums reattach to the teeth and reduce pockets where bacteria can thrive.

This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Our skilled dental hygienists use specialized instruments to meticulously clean your teeth and roots. Scaling and root planing can significantly reduce inflammation, bleeding, and pocket depth, helping to halt the progression of gum disease and restore the health of your gums.

After undergoing treatment for gum disease, maintaining the health of your gums is crucial to prevent recurrence. Periodontal maintenance involves regular professional cleanings and check-ups tailored to your specific needs. These appointments are more frequent than standard dental cleanings, usually every three to four months, to ensure that plaque and tartar are kept under control and any signs of gum disease are detected early.

During these visits, our dental team will perform a thorough cleaning, monitor the health of your gums, and provide personalized advice on maintaining good oral hygiene at home. Periodontal maintenance is a vital part of your ongoing dental care, helping to protect your investment in your oral health and prevent the need for more extensive treatments in the future.

In some cases, non-surgical treatments may not be sufficient to treat advanced gum disease. At Concord Dental, we offer various gum surgery options to address severe periodontal issues and restore the health of your gums. One common procedure is flap surgery, which involves lifting the gums to remove tartar deposits from deep periodontal pockets and then suturing the gums back in place for a snug fit around the teeth.

Another surgical option is grafting, which can be used to replace lost gum tissue or bone. Soft tissue grafts involve taking tissue from another part of your mouth or using donor tissue to cover exposed tooth roots, reducing sensitivity and improving the appearance of your gums. Bone grafts help regenerate lost bone and provide a stable foundation for teeth and dental implants.