Periodontal Therapy & Diagnosis
One of the most common issues identified during dental cleanings is the presence of gum disease. Although no one wants to be told that they have gum disease, identifying this issue is a good thing, because it means you can take steps to correct it and avoid experiencing the negative effects of advanced gum disease, which can include the loss of teeth and deterioration of the jawbone. Although no one wants to be diagnosed with gum disease, there are several treatment options our office offers to help halt, reverse, and address issues caused by gum disease, some of which are detailed below.
As a native of Greenville and fourth generation dentist, Dr. Preston Hamrick is proud to serve his community by developing personal relationships with all his patients and working hard to understand their needs and goals. To schedule an appointment for periodontal therapy to manage bacterial infections or learn more about our services such as gum grafting, call our Greenville practice today at 864.292.5125.
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Treating Gum Disease
One of the most common issues identified during Greenville South Carolina dentist cleanings is the presence of gum disease. Although no one wants to be told that they have gum disease, identifying this issue is a good thing, because it means you can take steps to correct it and avoid experiencing the negative effects of advanced gum disease, which can include the loss of teeth and deterioration of the jawbone. Although there is no cure for gum disease, there are several treatment options that can halt and reverse its effects.
If gum disease is not able to be corrected or halted with a dental cleaning, additional treatment options may include:
- Medications: Bacterial infections are sometimes treated with antibiotics.
- Prescription Rinses: Antiseptic rinses can be a helpful addition to your daily oral health routine to reduce your risk of gum disease.
- Scaling and Root Planing: Gum disease in its earlier stages can often be halted with a scale and root planing procedure, which is similar to a standard dental cleaning, though slightly more invasive. The scale and root planing procedure begins with administration of a local anesthetic to reduce your sensitivity. Next, the bacteria, tartar and plaque are removed from the periodontal pockets and the roots of the teeth are smoothed to inhibit further growth and give your gums an opportunity to heal
- Flap Surgery: If the scaling and root planing procedure does not remove enough of the bacteria, tartar and plaque, flap surgery may be necessary. To access the tooth roots and remove the bacteria, tartar, and plaque, the gums are surgically pulled back, and once the area is cleaned, sutured shut.
- Gum Graft Surgery: Because gums do not naturally regenerate, gum graft surgery may be necessary if your gums have recessed. To restore your natural gum line and reduce your risk of developing gum disease again, grafting material is sutured over the recessed area. Grafting material may be from a donor, synthetic in nature, or taken from the roof of your mouth.
Gum Grafting Procedure
The gum grafting process begins with an initial consultation with Dr. Hamrick, who will conduct a thorough oral examination to determine whether gum grafting is an appropriate treatment option for you and the underlying cause of your gum recession. If gum grafting is the optimal treatment option, your next appointment will begin with Dr. Hamrick numbing the area to reduce or eliminate discomfort. Dental sedation will also be available to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Next, Dr. Hamrick will place the graft over the area of recession and suture it in place, after which the procedure will be complete.
Healing Process and Maintenance
It is common to experience some discomfort following your gum graft procedure, especially if the grafting material is taken from the roof of your mouth, but this can typically be managed with OTC pain relieving medication, ice packs, and rest. Eating soft foods, avoiding strenuous exercise, and avoiding the treatment site following the procedure are recommended to speed up the healing process and avoid complications.
Following a gum graft, it is also important to follow good oral hygiene habits to avoid needing similar treatments for periodontal therapy the future. Be sure to continue brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily, eat a healthy and balanced diet, and avoid use of tobacco. We also encourage our clients to schedule regular dental cleanings at least every six months to ensure the health and sustained brightness of your smile. In addition to giving your teeth a professional cleaning, these visits are also an opportunity for Dr. Preston Hamrick to evaluate your overall oral health, as he looks for any indications of gum disease or any other underlying issue that may require treatment. If you follow these best practices, you will enjoy a bright, white, healthy smile for many years to come.
Cost of Periodontal Therapy
For patients with dental insurance, the cost of periodontal therapy and treating gum disease or gum recession may or may not be covered. Our staff are happy to review your coverage to determine whether your plan does cover the costs of periodontal therapy and ensure you maximize your benefits and have minimal out of pocket expenses.
If you are a patient at our practice and do not have dental insurance, consider joining our membership club. Because we value your loyalty, we have launched this club to help save you and your family money on treatment and simplify payments for preventative care. We offer three levels of membership: child, adult, and perio membership. Professional dental cleanings, doctor exams, necessary X-rays, and a 5% discount on all other treatment (some exclusions apply) are included in all membership packages.
You can sign up today and start saving money on treatment online or call us at (864) 292-5125.
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For your convenience, we accept all forms of credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express.
Fall in Love with Your Smile Again
At Heritage Dentistry in Greenville, South Carolina, we are committed to providing 5-star customer service that is relationship based, along with a comprehensive range of treatment options that will provide you with optimal oral health and make you fall in love with your smile again. To schedule an appointment for periodontal therapy or learn more about our services, contact our Greenville dental team today at (684) 292-5125.
Learn More About Our Services
- All on 4 Dental Implants
- Bone Grafting
- Children's Dentistry
- Cosmetic Dentistry
- Dental Bonding
- Dental Bridge
- Dental Cleanings
- Dental Crowns
- Dental Exams
- Dental Fillings
- Dental Implants
- Dentist
- Dentures
- Family Dentistry
- Full Mouth Dental Implants
- Gum Contouring
- Gum Grafting
- Implant Supported Dentures
- Invisalign
- Periodontal Therapy
- Porcelain Veneers
- Root Canals
- Scale and Root Planing
- Sedation Dentistry
- Teeth Whitening
- Tooth Extractions