Gum Disease Treatment – Denver, CO
Stopping the Harmful Effects of Gum Disease
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated one out of two adults in the United States has gum disease. The key to tackling this oral health problem is to diagnose it in its earliest stages and treat it so the effects can be reversed. Dr. Soltani offers a couple of different highly effective options for gum disease treatment in Denver, CO to help prevent avoidable damage and get her patients’ oral health back on the right track.
Why Choose Paradise Dentistry & Orthodontics for Gum Disease Treatment?
- Quiet, Clean, & State-of-the-Art Dental Office
- Serene, & Comfortable Atmosphere
- Experienced & Friendly Dental Team
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a two-step process that can take place over the course of one or more appointments depending on the severity of your gum disease. First, our team will clear all plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth as well as in the pockets of your gums. Then, we will smooth out the roots of your teeth, allowing your gums to reattach and provide this vulnerable area with much-needed protection.
Do I Need Scaling & Root Planing?
In some cases, gum disease can be reversed via at-home oral hygiene. In other cases, scaling and root planing is necessary. You might need this treatment if you are experiencing significant signs of gum disease, such as:
- Red, tender, and swollen gums.
- Pockets between the teeth and gums.
- Chronic bad breath.
- Visible plaque buildup along the gumline.
- Gum recession.
After we evaluate your oral health, we will recommend the best way to get your oral health back on track.
The Process of Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing basically amounts to a deep dental cleaning. It may take place across one or more appointments (depending on the extent of your gum disease). It is a two-part process:
- During scaling, we carefully remove all plaque from your teeth. We clean both above and below the gumline.
- During root planing, we smooth out the roots of the teeth so it is more difficult for bacteria to stick to them. This also makes it easier for your gums to reattach to your teeth.
Aftercare Tips for Scaling & Root Planing
Your gums might be a bit tender and sore for a few weeks after scaling and root planing. To reduce discomfort and promote healing, you should:
- Regularly rinse with warm salt water. This can help with swelling and inflammation.
- Make wise food choices. Hot, spicy, and acidic foods can irritate your gums and tooth roots.
- Be gentle during oral hygiene tasks. You should use a soft toothbrush and exercise caution when flossing. Instead of snapping the floss between your teeth, carefully insert it in a controlled manner.
Laser Periodontal Therapy
Laser gum disease therapy isn’t a standalone procedure. It works in combination with scaling and root planing to help remove hardened bacteria deposits and severely damaged gum tissue, only leaving healthy tissue behind. There are some great advantages to using a soft tissue laser to treat gum disease, including a fast recovery time, no need for general anesthesia, precision when targeting bacteria, and little to no discomfort.
Antibiotic Therapy
Typically, we suggest antibiotic therapy in combination with scaling and root planing or laser periodontal therapy. After your treatment, we want to make sure that harmful oral bacteria don’t have a second chance to come back and wreak havoc on your teeth and gums. By rinsing with a medicated mouthwash or taking antibiotics orally in pill form, you’ll be able to help your body fight off this persistent infection.
