Gum Disease Treatment – Phoenix, AZ
Protecting More than Your Teeth
When it comes to your oral health, the condition of your gums matters just as much as your teeth. With that being said, about 50% of the U.S. adult population has some form of gum disease, which is a bacterial infection that can damage the tooth roots as well as the soft tissue that supports them. Gum disease has also been shown to be correlated with a much higher risk for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even dementia. Dr. Rodda takes gum health very seriously, which is why he offers a multitude of solutions for gum disease treatment in Phoenix at Complete Dental Care designed to protect and restore healthy gums.
Why Choose Complete Dental Care for Gum Disease Treatment?
- Quick & Comfortable Laser Therapy
- 200+ Hours of Continuing Education Completed Every Year
- Welcoming & State-of-the-Art Dental Office
Scaling & Root Planing
For patients with mild to moderate gum disease, scaling and root planing is often the first treatment recommended. It resembles a standard dental cleaning except that the focus is entirely on the gumline and roots of the teeth. These techniques serve to remove any bacteria-filled tartar deposits that are causing the infection as well as smooth out the rough surfaces of the tooth roots. Together, scaling and root planing stop an ongoing infection and jump-start the healing process.
Do I Need Scaling & Root Planing?
In some cases, the earliest stages of gum disease can be reversed via thorough at-home oral hygiene. In other cases, we recommend scaling and root planing. You might need this treatment if:
- Your gums are red, swollen, and tender.
- Your gums bleed easily when you brush and floss.
- You struggle with chronic bad breath.
- There are noticeable pockets between your teeth and gums.
- Your gums have started to recede (some of your teeth may look unusually long).
The Process of Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a two-part process. Depending on the extent of your condition, you may need to visit us for one or more appointments. Here is an overview of how the treatment works:
- During the scaling portion of treatment, we use a special instrument to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth. We do so both above and below the gumline.
- During root planing, we smooth out the roots of the teeth so it is more difficult for plaque and bacteria to stick to them. Thereafter, it should be easier for your gums to reattach to your teeth and heal from gum disease.
Aftercare Tips for Scaling & Root Planing
Your gums and teeth might be tender for up to a few weeks after your treatment. You can minimize discomfort by taking some practical steps:
- Regularly rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Stick to a soft diet that does not have a lot of spicy or hot foods.
- Be very gentle when carrying out your daily oral hygiene routine.
- Call us if you have any questions or concerns during your recovery period.
Laser Gum Disease Treatment
More advanced gum disease calls for a more advanced solution, and at Complete Dental Care, that comes in the form of laser gum disease treatment. Using a concentrated beam of light, Dr. Rodda can precisely remove infected tissue and tartar while leaving any surrounding healthy gums alone. This level of accuracy makes the procedure extremely comfortable, and the laser itself emits no heat, sound, or vibration. Plus, the laser sanitizes and cauterizes as it works, leading to a short recovery while dramatically reducing post-treatment soreness compared to more traditional methods.