Downtown Dental
General Dentists located in Downtown, Rapid City, SD
More than 45% of Americans ages 30 and older have some type of gum disease. If you’re one of them, periodontal therapy can preserve your smile and reduce the risk of more serious issues. At Downtown Dental in Rapid City, South Dakota, Michael Krump, DDS, and the team offer several types of periodontal therapy, including scaling and root planing and antibiotics. To make an appointment for periodontal therapy, call the office or book online today.
(605) 342-4882Periodontal Therapy Q&A
What is periodontal therapy?
Periodontal therapy is a group of procedures designed to treat gum disease. There are several types of gum disease, but the team at Downtown Dental focuses on two:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis occurs when plaque –– a film of saliva, food particles, and bacteria –– collects on your teeth. Over time, plaque hardens and turns to calculus. Calculus irritates your gums, causing them to recede and pull away from your teeth.
Periodontitis
If gingivitis remains untreated, it progresses to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more serious infection. Without early diagnosis and treatment, it causes tooth loss, bone decay, and persistent bad breath.
Who is a candidate for periodontal therapy?
You might be a candidate for periodontal therapy if you experience symptoms like:
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Bright red or purple gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Spaces between your teeth
As the condition worsens, you might also experience changes in your bite.
What are the types of periodontal therapy?
At Downtown Dental, the team offers several types of periodontal therapy, including:
Scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing is an outpatient procedure that removes plaque and calculus (tartar) from the surfaces of your teeth and beneath your gums. After removing the buildup, your provider smooths the surfaces of your teeth, allowing your gums to reattach.
Scaling and root planing might take one (or several) appointments. The amount of treatment required depends on the severity of your gum disease.
Antibiotics
Sometimes, scaling and root planing isn’t enough to prevent gum disease from spreading. If you have a significant infection, the team at Downtown Dental might recommend antibiotics.
There are several types of antibiotics that treat gum disease, including oral antibiotics, antibiotic rinses, and implantable beads. Your provider makes recommendations based on your oral health history and needs.
Why is periodontal therapy important?
Periodontal therapy is important because it can significantly reduce the risk of more serious issues, like tooth loss and bone decay. What’s more, the sooner you receive treatment, the less likely you are to experience irreparable damage. With healthy gums supported by routine checkups at Downtown Dental, you can smile confidently for years to come.
To see if you’re a candidate for periodontal therapy, make an appointment at Downtown Dental by calling the nearest office or booking online today.
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