Gum Disease
Treatment

Gum Disease Treatment

If you have gum disease, treatment is necessary to prevent it from causing lasting damage. Southern Magnolia Dentistry offers surgical and non-surgical procedures to keep your smile healthy and free of disease!

What is Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums. It starts as a clear film on the teeth (plaque) and hardens into tarter when unaddressed. This is the early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis. When left untreated, gingivitis becomes periodontitis.

Periodontitis can destroy the tissue surrounding your teeth and the bone that holds them in place. If gum disease progresses to a more advanced stage, you may experience tooth loss and a weakened immune system. Because of the severity of the disease, it’s crucial to get it treated as soon as possible.

Our Gum Disease Treatments

If you have a mild case, non-surgical methods can be used for treatment. The most common non-surgical periodontal procedures are scaling and root planing. Scaling is the removal of the dental tartar from the tooth surface, and root planing is the process of smoothening the root surfaces and removing the infected tooth structure.

While the procedure is usually painless, advanced stages of gingivitis may make it necessary to numb the area for complete comfort. Deep scaling and root planing is generally broken down into one section of the mouth per appointment to allow for adequate healing time.

Do You Need Surgical Treatment?

Advanced gum disease may need to be treated with periodontal surgery. Depending on the extent of the damage, there are several options your dentist may recommend. Flap surgery is needed to make it easier to remove plaque and tartar from under the gums. If the surrounding tooth root has become damaged, a grafting treatment is necessary to replace it.

Our team is happy to determine which treatment is best for your current condition.

Do You Need Gum Disease Treatment in Smyrna, TN?

Southern Magnolia Dentistry offers various solutions to treat or prevent the progression of gum disease. Contact our office today if you have any questions!