“Periodontal disease,” better known as gum disease, might be an unfamiliar term, but it’s actually the most common dental problem in the entire world! It is an infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth, and while early symptoms like redness and tenderness are easy to miss, it can actually lead to bone degeneration and even tooth loss if left untreated.
At Legacy Trails Dental of Plano, we take the health of your gums very seriously, which is why we will screen them during all of your appointments. Should you show any signs of this infection, we can quickly and effectively treat you using the procedures outlined below. With our diligence, we’ll make sure this global problem is never a factor for your smile. If you’re experiencing red, puffy, or tender gums that bleed whenever you brush your teeth, be sure to contact us today for periodontal therapy in Plano, TX.
These two treatments are sometimes collectively referred to as a “deep cleaning,” and they serve as our first line of defense against early-stage gum disease, better known as gingivitis. During the scaling portion, your dentist or hygienist will clear away all the plaque and tartar deposits located around your gum line, and then they’ll use root planing to gently smooth out the rough surfaces of your teeth’s roots (where gum disease bacteria tends to gather). This procedure will also help any infected gum tissue properly heal and firmly reattach to your teeth.
Thanks to our Biolase® Soft Tissue Laser, we’re now able to treat gum disease even faster while protecting our patients from discomfort. This small device emits a highly-concentrated beam of light that can completely eliminate bacteria and even infected tissue in an instant. This tool is so precise that it leaves all of the surrounding healthy tissue untouched and sterilizes as it works, helping reduce any bleeding or post-treatment pain/swelling a patient might feel.