Periodontal Therapy: Restoring the Health of Your Gums
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. When gum disease is present, periodontal therapy plays a crucial role in restoring gum health, preventing further damage, and preserving your natural teeth.
At Shem Creek Dental, we offer comprehensive periodontal care to help manage and treat gum disease — whether it’s in the early stages or has progressed to more advanced levels.
Periodontal Therapy
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a chronic infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It typically begins with gingivitis (inflammation and bleeding of the gums), and if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis, where the infection damages the bone and tissues that support the teeth.
Common signs of periodontal disease include:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession (gums pulling away from the teeth)
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
What Is Periodontal Therapy?
Periodontal therapy refers to the treatments used to control and eliminate gum disease, restore gum tissue health, and prevent tooth loss. The type of therapy recommended will depend on the severity of the condition.
Common Periodontal Treatments Include:
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
This is a non-surgical treatment where we remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline (scaling) and smooth the root surfaces (root planing) to promote healing and prevent further bacterial buildup.
Antibacterial Treatments
In some cases, localized antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses may be used to help reduce bacteria and inflammation in deeper gum pockets.
Ongoing Maintenance Cleanings
After active treatment, patients may need more frequent cleanings (every 3–4 months) to keep gum disease under control and prevent recurrence.
Surgical Options (If Needed)
In advanced cases, referral to a periodontist may be necessary for surgical procedures like flap surgery or bone grafting to restore lost support.
Why Is Periodontal Therapy Important?
Untreated gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth — research has linked it to other health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Effective periodontal therapy can help:
- Prevent tooth loss
- Reduce gum inflammation and bleeding
- Improve breath and oral comfort
- Support overall health and wellness
Your Partner in Gum Health
Our team is committed to helping you maintain strong, healthy gums for life. If you’re experiencing signs of gum disease, or if it’s been a while since your last dental visit, we encourage you to schedule a periodontal evaluation.
Early intervention makes all the difference — let us help you protect your smile from the ground up.
