Your gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Beyond supporting your smile, keeping them healthy has been shown to enhance your overall health. Because periodontal, or gum disease, often develops quietly, it can cause significant damage before symptoms ever appear. At Keystone Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of preventing, treating, and managing periodontal disease to help keep your teeth intact and ensure you maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an inflammatory condition caused by the buildup of bacteria and plaque on the teeth and along the gumline. In its earliest stage, known as gingivitis, symptoms may include redness, swelling, or bleeding during brushing and flossing.
Left untreated, the infection can progress into a more serious condition known as periodontitis. The gums will begin to pull away from the teeth, creating deep pockets that harbor harmful bacteria, eventually destroying the bone and connective tissues that provide essential support for your teeth, leading to loose teeth and tooth loss.
The impacts of periodontal disease often extend beyond the mouth. Studies have found links between chronic gum inflammation and infection and other systemic health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes. Regular screenings are essential to stop the infection in its tracks, safeguarding your health.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing (SRP) is the first line of treatment for periodontal disease. The non-surgical deep cleaning involves the removal of plaque and tartar from along and under the gumline, followed by cleaning and smoothing your tooth root surfaces. This helps encourage your gums to reattach and heal. Scaling and root planing has been shown to control the infection, reduce inflammation, and create a healthier environment for your gums to recover.
How Does Scaling and Root Planing Save Your Gums and Teeth?
The following are some of the key benefits of our non-surgical gum disease treatment:
- Reversing early gum disease (gingivitis) in many cases
- Preventing bacteria from spreading deeper into the gums
- Reducing periodontal pockets that trap plaque and harbor harmful bacteria
- Protecting the bone, gums, and connective tissue that hold your teeth in place
- Supporting your long-term periodontal health
- Enhancing your systemic health
What Are Signs You Need Periodontal Therapy?
Signs you may need a scaling and root planing treatment include persistent bleeding when brushing or flossing, chronic bad breath, gum recession or tenderness, or teeth that feel loose. One or more of these symptoms mean you should not wait or postpone care. Prompt treatment will help stabilize the inflammation and infection, safeguarding your oral and overall health. At Keystone Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping our valued patients maintain beautiful, healthy smiles for life.
Gum Care Near Me in Indianapolis, IN
At Keystone Dentistry, we take a gentle, personalized approach to periodontal therapy. Our experienced team uses modern technology and techniques to ensure your scaling and root planing treatments are as comfortable and effective as possible. We invite you to call us at (317) 575-1120 to schedule an appointment or request one online today.
