Periodontal Therapy - Bella Vista, AR

Your gums play an equally important role as your teeth in maintaining a healthy smile. The biggest threat to your oral health besides tooth decay is periodontal (gum) disease. Although the infection is preventable with the right oral hygiene habits and regular care from your dentist, at least 50% of adults in American have it. At Combs & Associates Family Dentistry, we treat gingivitis to stop the infection before irreversible damage occurs.

What is Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease is a preventable infection caused by harmful oral bacteria found in tartar accumulations near the gum line. It causes pockets to form between the roots of your teeth and the gingival tissue, trapping additional bacteria. It will eventually destroy the supporting structures of your teeth. It can also increase your risk of several health concerns, like cardiovascular disease.

Why is Gum Disease So Serious?

The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. It causes your gums to become red and inflamed. You may experience slight bleeding when brushing or flossing your teeth. The mild symptoms may not seem like an immediate concern, but if you do not seek treatment for periodontal disease right away the infection will intensify.

Over time, it destroys the supporting structures of your teeth, causing them to become loose and fall out. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in the U.S. The infection can also enter your bloodstream. As it circulates throughout your body, it increases your risk for several health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetic complications.

Understanding Periodontal Therapy

Our team is specially trained to handle your complex oral health needs. We create a customized treatment plan to stop the damage of the infection and prevent it from reoccurring.

Charting and Diagnostic Services

Periodontal charting involves measuring the space between your tooth and the gum tissue. A special probe is gently inserted into the space, which acts as a tape measure. Healthy gum tissue is about 1 to 3 millimeter and fits tightly around a tooth. If your pocket depth exceeds 4 millimeters, you will need treatment for gum disease.

Scaling and Root Planing

Also known as a deep cleaning, the two procedures are the first step to restoring a healthy smile. Scaling uses a special dental tool to remove tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing smooths the root surfaces of your teeth to discourage future buildup. It also encourages your gum tissue to reattach to your teeth.

We provide individualized solutions that meet your specific needs to restore a healthy, beautiful smile. If you have signs of gum disease, do not wait until it is too late. Contact our office right away to schedule your consultation for periodontal therapy. We look forward to saving your smile.