Periodontal treatment focuses on the health of the gums and the underlying bone that supports your teeth. Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and contribute to systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes. At Westmorland Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we utilize advanced deep cleaning techniques to halt the progression of infection and preserve your natural smile.

The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is characterized by red, swollen, or bleeding gums. At this stage, the condition is often reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care. However, if the infection progresses to periodontitis, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, creating “pockets” where bacteria thrive and destroy the supporting bone. To treat this, we perform scaling and root planing. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, while root planing smoothes the roots of the teeth to help the gum tissue reattach and close the deep pockets.

Maintaining periodontal health is the most important factor in long-term dental success. You cannot build a beautiful, lasting smile on an unstable foundation. For our patients in Cocke and Jefferson Counties, we focus on a “proactive” rather than “reactive” approach to gum health. By monitoring your gum pocket depths during every checkup and utilizing digital imaging to track bone levels, we can catch and treat periodontal issues before they require surgical intervention or result in tooth loss.

FAQ: Managing Gum Health

• How do I know if I have gum disease? Bleeding when you brush or floss is the most common sign. Persistent bad breath or “loose” teeth are signs of more advanced infection.
• Is scaling and root planing painful? We use local anesthesia to ensure you are completely comfortable during the deep cleaning process.
• Can gum disease be cured? While advanced periodontitis cannot be “cured” in the sense that lost bone doesn’t grow back, it can be managed and halted with regular periodontal maintenance.
• How often should I get a periodontal cleaning? Patients with a history of gum disease typically need a “maintenance” cleaning every 3 to 4 months instead of the standard 6-month interval.