Periodontal Therapy in Duncan: Protect Your Gums and Overall Health
Dr. Rob Schick understands that gum disease affects millions of people, often without them even realizing it. That’s why we take a proactive approach, catching and treating problems early before they escalate into something more serious.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Gum disease starts quietly. You might notice a little bleeding when you brush or floss, maybe some redness or swelling. These early signs point to gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease. With proper care and professional treatment, the damage remains reversible at this stage.
Left untreated, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. This more serious condition creates pockets between your teeth and gums where bacteria thrive. Your gums pull away from your teeth, and the bone supporting them breaks down. Eventually, teeth can become loose or even fall out. The scary part? Periodontitis often causes minimal pain, so people don’t realize how much damage accumulates until significant harm has occurred.
Research keeps uncovering connections between gum disease and systemic health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Taking care of your gums isn’t just about saving your teeth—it’s about protecting your whole body.
Signs You Might Need Periodontal Therapy
Recognizing the warning signs early makes treatment more effective and less invasive. Pay attention to these symptoms:
- Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Gums that look red, swollen, or tender
- Receding gums that make your teeth look longer
- Teeth that feel loose or shift position
- Changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite
Even if you don’t notice obvious symptoms, regular checkups remain crucial. Dr. Rob Schick performs a comprehensive 6-point soft tissue and oral cancer exam at each hygiene appointment. He carefully examines your oral cavity and checks extraoral areas under your chin and neck. We want to do our part in ensuring you maintain excellent oral health, catching any concerns before they develop into bigger problems.
Our Approach to Periodontal Therapy in Duncan
Every patient’s situation is unique, which means every treatment plan needs customization. Dr. Rob Schick takes the time to assess your gum health thoroughly, measuring pocket depths around each tooth and evaluating bone levels. This detailed examination helps us determine the extent of the disease and create the most effective treatment strategy for your specific needs.
For early-stage gum disease, we often recommend scaling and root planing. Think of it as a deep cleaning that goes beneath the gum line. We remove plaque and tartar buildup from tooth surfaces and smooth the roots to help your gums reattach to your teeth. This procedure typically happens over one or two appointments, depending on how much treatment you need.
Some patients benefit from antimicrobial treatments that target the bacteria causing gum disease. We might use special rinses or place medication directly into the gum pockets to help fight infection and promote healing.
Advanced Treatment Options
When periodontal disease advances beyond what non-surgical treatments can handle, we develop more comprehensive approaches. Surgical options might include pocket reduction procedures to reduce the depth of gum pockets, making them easier to keep clean. Gum grafts can cover exposed roots and restore a healthier gum line.
The beauty of modern dentistry lies in how we can combine different treatments to achieve the best results. Our dental technology helps us diagnose problems accurately and plan treatments precisely, giving you the most comfortable experience possible.
Maintaining Your Results After Periodontal Therapy in Duncan
Getting your gums healthy again takes work, but keeping them healthy requires ongoing commitment. We’ll set up a maintenance schedule tailored to your needs—some patients need cleanings every three months, while others do well with four-month intervals. These appointments aren’t optional extras; they’re essential for preventing disease from returning.
Your home care routine makes or breaks long-term success. Brush twice daily for two minutes, using a soft-bristled brush and proper technique. Floss every day, getting beneath the gum line where bacteria love to hide. If Dr. Schick recommends it, consider adding an antimicrobial mouthwash to your routine. Changing to an electric tooth brush will increase your efficiency by 30%. A WaterPik used daily will remove 99% of the Biofilm that leads to gum disease. It does not eliminate flossing, it’s in addition too.
Lifestyle factors play a role, too. Smoking dramatically increases your risk of gum disease and makes treatment less effective. If you smoke, quitting gives your gums their best chance at healing and staying healthy. Managing conditions like diabetes also helps since blood sugar levels directly impact gum health.
Why Choose Southwest Dental Group for Periodontal Care
Experience matters when it comes to treating gum disease. Our team has helped countless Duncan residents reclaim their gum health and prevent tooth loss. We don’t just treat the symptoms—we address the underlying causes and help you understand how to maintain the results.
Our services extend beyond periodontal therapy, so we can coordinate all aspects of your dental care under one roof. Whether you need a routine cleaning, restorative work, or specialized gum treatment, we’ve got you covered.
We also recognize that dental care costs concern many patients. Our office dental plans make quality care more accessible for patients without traditional insurance. We also work with various finance and insurance options to help you get the treatment you need without breaking the bank.
Take Control of Your Gum Health Today
Gum disease won’t improve independently—it only worsens with time. The good news? With proper Periodontal Therapy in Duncan, you can stop the progression, restore your gum health, and protect your smile for the long haul. Dr. Schick and our caring team stand ready to help you every step of the way.
Don’t wait until loose teeth or serious discomfort force you to take action. Early intervention saves you time, money, and teeth. Contact Southwest Dental Group today to schedule your comprehensive periodontal evaluation. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that gets your gums back to optimal health and keeps them that way for life.
