Gum disease is a common but serious condition that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available to help you maintain a healthy smile. At Hooks Family Dentistry in College Station, TX, we offer non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT), also called a “deep cleaning” or scaling and root planing, to combat gum disease and restore your oral health.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, starts with plaque buildup on your teeth. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, leading to inflammation and infection of the gums. The early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with proper care. However, if it progresses to periodontitis, it can lead to bone loss and damage the tissue supporting your teeth. Unlike gingivitis, the bone loss from periodontitis is not reversible, only treatable.
How Gum Disease Progresses
Each person’s body responds differently to periodontal bacteria. The bacteria in your mouth cause the body to create inflammation which can lead to further bone loss and potential tooth loss. The inflammation is the body’s attempt to fight the infection, but it also results in the destruction of bone and tissues that hold teeth in place.
What is Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy?
Non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) or scaling and root planing, is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. This treatment helps the gums reattach to the teeth, reducing pockets where bacteria thrive. It’s an effective method for halting the progression of gum disease, reducing inflammation and bleeding, and promoting healing.
The Procedure
During periodontal therapy, we will use specialized tools to meticulously remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and beneath the gums. The goal is to reduce bacteria in your mouth, reduce bleeding and inflammation, encourage reattachment of the gums, and preserve your teeth. Local anesthesia is often used to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
Benefits Of Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy (NSPT)
This treatment not only improves gum health but also helps prevent tooth loss and reduces bad breath caused by gum disease. Periodontal therapy helps remove the bacteria, reducing inflammation and bleeding, to help restore periodontal health. Patients often notice a significant improvement in gum health, less bleeding, improved breath, and reduced inflammation after the procedure.
Maintaining Gum Health at Hooks Family Dentistry in College Station, TX
At Hooks Family Dentistry, Dr. Ryan Hooks and our team are dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to your needs. Regular periodontal maintenance visits, combined with good oral hygiene practices at home, are essential for maintaining the results of scaling and root planing. Our team will work with you to create a personalized plan to keep your gums healthy and your smile bright.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or simply need a thorough cleaning, schedule an appointment at Hooks Family Dentistry in College Station, TX. Let us help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health!
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