Lubbock, Texas

Periodontal Treatments

Maintaining healthy gums and confident smiles.
Did you know that almost half of Americans over 30 have some form of periodontal (gum) disease? The serious yet preventable condition continues to be one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. At Dentist of Lubbock, we emphasize the prevention, treatment, and management of gum disease to help our valued patients enjoy healthy smiles for life.

Periodontal Disease - An Overview

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition characterized by the inflammation of the structures surrounding the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament (PDL), and alveolar bone. If plaque is not removed from the teeth and gums by regular brushing and flossing, it can cause irritation and inflammation. Other risk factors for periodontal disease include misaligned teeth, smoking, the natural aging process, family history, and hormonal changes such as those occurring during pregnancy.

The first stage of periodontal is called gingivitis. Patients typically experience gum redness and inflammation, and their gums sometimes bleed when they brush their teeth. The good news is that gingivitis is usually reversible with treatment and proper oral hygiene care.

If not treated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis. The gum tissues will pull away from the teeth, leaving spaces called pockets, which trap food debris and bacteria. As the condition advances, it can lead to gum recession, exposing the tooth roots. Moreover, the inflammation and infection can break down the bone and tissues supporting the teeth, leading to bone loss, loose teeth, infection, and eventually, tooth loss.

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?

The first line of defense against periodontal disease is a deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing. Scaling is similar to what you can expect during a routine dental cleaning. Our dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gum line using special dental instruments. Next is root planing, which involves cleaning and smoothing the tooth root surfaces to encourage the gum tissues to heal.

Scaling and root planing, coupled with good oral hygiene care, can usually prevent periodontal disease from progressing and further damaging your teeth and gums. If, however, the condition is at an advanced stage, you may require periodontal surgery to restore your healthy smile.

What Happens After Periodontal Treatment?

After periodontal therapy, most patients will require “periodontal maintenance” visits every three to four months. These involve cleaning your teeth, evaluating the health of your gums, and measuring the depth of periodontal pockets. You’ll also need to maintain meticulous oral hygiene practices at home, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash. Our goal is to prevent the condition from progressing to maintain your gum and bone health.