Restore Your Smile with Periodontal Therapy in Cary, NC

A healthy, confident smile starts with strong gums. Periodontal health is crucial for overall oral hygiene, yet many people ignore the early signs of gum disease. If you experience swollen gums, bleeding, or persistent bad breath, seeking periodontal therapy can help restore your smile and prevent further complications.

Previously, we discussed why a periodontist is the right specialist for dental implant placement. In this post, we’ll focus on how periodontal therapy can help restore your smile and enhance gum health.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It starts as gingivitis, causing redness, inflammation, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, leading to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss.

6 Essential Steps of Periodontal Therapy to Reclaim Your Healthy Smile

Periodontal therapy in Cary, NC is essential for restoring gum health, preventing tooth loss, and improving overall oral hygiene. Several treatment options can effectively treat gum disease, gum recession, and bone deterioration. They are as follows:

1. Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)

A professional deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is the first step in gum disease treatment. This non-surgical procedure removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline, preventing further infection.

• Scaling eliminates plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums.

• Root planing smooths the tooth roots, allowing gums to reattach properly.

• Reduces gum pocket depth, lowering the risk of reinfection.

2. Gum Grafting for Receding Gums

If gum recession has exposed the roots of your teeth, gum grafting can restore lost tissue and improve the function and appearance of your smile. The procedure involves taking healthy tissue from another part of your mouth (or using donor tissue) to cover the exposed roots.

Benefits of gum grafting include:

• Reducing tooth sensitivity

• Protecting tooth roots from decay

• Improving gum health and aesthetics

• Preventing further gum recession

3. Laser Therapy for Gum Disease

Laser therapy is a minimally invasive treatment that targets infected gum tissue while preserving healthy tissue. This advanced technology disinfects the area, promoting faster healing with less discomfort.

Advantages of laser therapy:

• Less pain and swelling

• Minimal bleeding

• Faster recovery time

• More precise bacterial removal

4. Antibiotic Therapy for Preventing Gum Infections

Antibiotic therapy is a valuable treatment for managing gum infections and promoting healing after periodontal care. When used alongside scaling and root planing or other procedures, antibiotics help eliminate harmful bacteria and reduce the risk of reinfection. These medications are available in various forms, including gels, mouth rinses, and slow-release microspheres, allowing for targeted treatment.

Benefits of Antibiotic Therapy:

• Controls bacterial growth and prevents infection from spreading

• Supports faster healing following periodontal treatment

• Lowers the chances of gum disease recurrence

Pairing antibiotic therapy with preventive dentistry in Cary, NC, including routine dental cleanings and checkups, plays a crucial role in maintaining long-term gum health and preventing future complications.

5. Surgical Treatments for Severe Periodontal Disease

For advanced periodontitis, surgical intervention may be required. A periodontist in Cary, NC may recommend:

• Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery): Lifts the gums to remove deep plaque and tartar before repositioning them to reduce pocket depth.

• Bone Grafting: Restores lost bone structure by placing grafting material where bone loss has occurred.

• Tissue Regeneration: Uses membranes or growth proteins to encourage new bone and gum tissue growth.

These procedures help rebuild gum and bone support, preventing tooth loss and further oral health complications.

6. Ongoing Periodontal Maintenance

Once periodontal therapy is complete, a proactive oral hygiene routine is essential to prevent recurrence. A customized maintenance plan may include:

• Professional cleanings (every 3–4 months) to remove plaque buildup

• Daily brushing and flossing to maintain gum health

• Antibacterial mouth rinses to control bacterial growth

• Lifestyle adjustments such as quitting smoking and managing diabetes

By following consistent periodontal care, you can maintain healthy gums and prevent future oral health problems.

Conclusion:

Gum disease should not compromise your oral health and confidence. If you experience signs of periodontal disease, seek expert care today. Schedule an appointment with a trusted dentist in Cary, NC, and take the first step toward restoring your healthy smile.

Don't let common myths stand in the way of your ideal smile. Call 919-380-8888 today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward better oral health!