Periodontal Therapy

Wappingers Falls, New York

Did you know that periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults? The good news is that being proactive about caring for your gums can help safeguard your oral health. Our team at Mel Mel Dental is pleased to offer tailored periodontal services to keep your smile healthy and sound. We invite you to visit our Wappingers Falls practice to get your gum health back on track.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a condition that affects the bone and gum that hold the teeth in place. It usually results from plaque and tartar deposits around and under the gumline, which can lead to inflammation and infection. Additional risk factors include smoking, diabetes, tooth misalignment, and hormonal changes.

Aside from your oral health, gum disease is a serious health concern. Research shows a link between periodontal disease and chronic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, and even pregnancy complications. That's why our team at Mel Mel Dental emphasizes the importance of preventing, treating, and managing periodontal disease.

What Are the Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Signs of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, often include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. As the condition advances to periodontitis, the gum tissues pull away from the teeth, forming spaces called periodontal pockets. These pockets provide harmful bacteria the perfect environment to flourish. Without treatment, the inflammation and infection will continue to advance, damaging the bone and tissues supporting the teeth, which can lead to loose teeth and tooth loss.

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated

The first line of defense against periodontal disease is a deep dental cleaning known as scaling and root planing. The non-surgical procedure involves removing plaque and tartar buildup at and below the gum line and cleaning and smoothing the tooth root surfaces. At Mel Mel Dental, we also utilize laser dentistry to enhance the deep cleaning process. Our soft tissue laser targets and eliminates harmful oral bacteria, reduces inflammation, and promotes rapid healing.

Periodontal treatment can usually reverse gingivitis, restoring your healthy gums. It can also prevent the progression of periodontitis, safeguarding your teeth and gums. However, in some advanced cases, additional surgical treatments may be required to help your gum tissues heal and preserve your natural teeth.

What Is Periodical Maintenance?

After periodontal disease treatment, a consistent maintenance plan is critical. While it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices, regular professional cleanings every 3-4 months can ensure gum disease doesn't make an unwelcome comeback. Your periodontal maintenance visits also allow us to intervene whenever necessary to maintain your gum health.