Periodontal Therapy
Kingwood TX
Serving the Kingwood community & surrounding areas since 1998
Periodontal Therapy Kingwood TX
Serving the Kingwood community & surrounding areas since 1998
Periodontal Therapy For Gum Disease
Periodontal therapy includes treatments designed to control gum disease, prevent it from progressing, and restore the health of the gums (and supporting tissues). As gum disease advances to periodontitis, the gums may recede, and pockets around the teeth can deepen. This then allows more bacteria to collect below the gumline. This can lead to inflammation, infection, bone loss, and eventual tooth loss. Although periodontal therapy may involve several different procedures, each treatment is intended to reduce harmful bacteria and improve the health of the affected tissues.
Periodontal disease has three levels of severity, and if left untreated, will continue to progress, making it more difficult to correct, and resulting in much more severe outcomes. The stages of progression are as follows:
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontitis. The most common symptoms at this level are gums that bleed easily or are red and puffy. Gingivitis can typically be halted with a deep cleaning procedure followed by regular periodontal maintenance.
- Early Periodontitis: If gingivitis is not corrected quickly enough, the disease will advance to early periodontitis. At this stage, symptoms are essentially the same as gingivitis, only more severe. This stage of gum disease is also when the gums begin to recede. This stage can usually be halted with a deep cleaning and regular periodontal maintenance.
- Advanced Periodontitis: The most advanced state of gum disease, at this stage the toxins, plaque, and bacteria are aggressively destroying the gum tissue and the gum recession becomes more pronounced. It will be necessary to perform deep cleanings and schedule more frequent periodontal therapy; however, if the disease has become severe enough, it may mean the loss of a tooth or teeth and the deterioration of the jawbone.
Treating advanced gum disease with periodontal therapy is typically a multistep process and can include a range of procedures, which are detailed below. If you would like to learn more about periodontal therapy and steps you can take to treat gum disease and gum recession, or if you would like to schedule an appointment for periodontal therapy, you can reach us at 281-359-9100, or our office is located at 1542 Green Oak Pl, Kingwood, TX 77339.
Periodontal Procedures to Treat Gum Disease and Recession
Every patient who has gum disease or recession will have a slightly different treatment plan, but in general, the following are the most common methods for stopping and reversing gum disease:
- Scaling and Root Planing: Scaling and root planing is the most common and effective method for removing plaque and calculus that has accumulated below the tissues of your gums and reducing your risk of developing gum disease and/ or gum recession.
- Pinhole Surgical Technique: Pinhole Surgical Technique is a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure that effectively improves gum recession by making small pinholes in your gums, then using specialized instruments to place the gums back to the desired position.
- Gum Grafting: When gum recession is significant, it may be necessary to perform a gum graft, which involves taking a piece of tissue from the top of your mouth and placing it over the affected area, then suturing this graft to allow it to heal.
- Periodontal Laser Treatment: Laser therapy has become an increasingly popular method for targeting difficult-to-reach bacteria that are causing the gums to recede.
- Dental Implants: If gum disease has become especially severe, it is possible that a tooth or teeth may fall out or need to be extracted. One of the most popular methods for replacing this missing tooth or teeth is a dental implant, which will restore functionality and look like your natural tooth.
Proper Care Prevents Gum Disease and Gum Recession
Practicing good oral health care is the most important thing you can do to prevent gum disease and gum recession from developing. Continue brushing and flossing (twice daily, minimum), be mindful of the types of food and beverages you consume, and avoid foods or substances that can negatively impact your oral health (chewing tobacco, staining foods, sugary drinks). It is equally important to continue scheduling regular dental exams every six months, or more frequently, depending upon your unique oral health needs. If you follow these general guidelines, you will significantly reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease and will enjoy a healthy smile for many years to come!
Cost and Insurance Coverage for Periodontal Therapy
The cost of treating gum disease and recession with periodontal therapy will depend upon the severity of your case and what insurance coverage from your dental plan can be applied. It is important to be aware that if the cosmetic procedure you are having performed does not also improve functionality, it may not be covered by your plan.
It is also important to be aware that you are fully responsible for all fees and payment is due at the time of service, regardless of your insurance coverage. Monthly payment plans can be arranged, but this will need to be established prior to the procedure being performed. Although we will not have a contractual arrangement with your provider, our staff is happy to assist with processing your insurance claim to ensure that you maximize your benefits and receive the high-quality care you need and deserve. For your convenience, we accept Mastercard, Visa, and Discover.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Scheduling an appointment for periodontal therapy is the first step towards improving and maintaining your ongoing oral health.
At Kingwood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide personalized dental care focused on your oral health and comfort. Our team is committed to delivering high-quality treatment in a welcoming environment. We also take the time to explain your procedure and answer any questions so you feel informed and comfortable throughout your care.
To learn more about periodontal therapy or to schedule an appointment, call us at 281-359-9100. You can also visit our office at 1542 Green Oak Pl, Kingwood, TX 77339. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier smile.