PROTECT YOUR SMILE WITH PERIODONTAL CARE

Periodontal disease is a serious condition that, if left untreated, can compromise much more than the health of your gums. When gum disease spreads, it can cause tooth loss and other significant health issues. At Advanced Dentistry of Blakeney in Charlotte, NC, Dr. John M. Pinnix IV and Dr. George A. Betancourt offer gum disease treatment such as deep cleaning and bone grafting.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is characterized by infection or inflammation of the gums. Common signs of gum disease include redness, swelling, bleeding when brushing or flossing, and persistent bad breath. There are two stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the reversible early stage of gum disease.

Common signs of gum disease include redness, swelling, bleeding when brushing or flossing, and persistent bad breath.

When left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth and form pockets that become infected. The longer periodontitis is allowed to progress, the greater the risk of irreparable damage to the bone, gums, and other supportive tissues becomes. Studies show that gum disease can also increase your risk of severe health issues such as heart disease and diabetes.

Your Treatment Options

Depending on the stage of your gum disease, Drs. Pinnix and Betancourt can offer a wide range of periodontal treatments. Often, early stages of gingivitis can be addressed with non-surgical options. However, when periodontitis develops, surgical invention may be required. 

Scaling and Root Planing

Also called a deep cleaning, scaling and root planing involves the careful cleaning of root surfaces. This treatment can remove plaque and tartar buildup from periodontal pockets. It can also smooth root surfaces to minimize the risk of recurrence. Some patients experience a complete reversal of their symptoms after a scaling and root planing treatment, while others require ongoing therapy to protect the health of their gums.

Laser Gum Contouring

For some patients, we can provide laser gum contouring to remove infected tissue from the gum line. Performed using a diode laser, this treatment can resolve issues without damaging healthy tissue. Laser procedures involve little to no risk of infection and have fewer risks than traditional methods.

Pocket Reduction

Periodontal disease eventually causes pockets to form around teeth. The deeper the pockets become, the easier it is for bacteria to develop and spread the infection. During a pocket reduction procedure, Dr. Pinnix or Betancourt can fold back the gum tissue and remove bacteria before replacing the tissue. This treatment allows gum tissue to reattach more easily to healthy bone tissue and can prevent the progression of the disease.

Soft Tissue Grafting

A gum graft can cover roots exposed by periodontal disease-related tissue recession. During this procedure, tissue is harvested from a donor source and then attached to recessed areas.

Restore Your Oral Health

Your gums play an integral role in your oral health and overall health. We are prepared to help you eliminate or control gum disease through state-of-the-art treatments. Contact our office by phone at (704) 543-1102 or submit a message online today if you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease.