Gum Disease Treatment in
Clarksville

Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is a relatively common oral health issue that should not be taken lightly. Nearly half of all adults will experience periodontitis to some degree, and the problem can easily lead to tooth loss and other dental health issues if it is left untreated. The condition starts innocently enough, as a person’s gums become irritated due to prolonged and excessive exposure to harmful tartar, plaque and bacteria. During this time, the gums will usually appear swollen and possibly darkened in color. They may also begin to bleed when the individual brushes or flosses. Although many people simply choose to ignore the problem, doing so can be a huge mistake. We strongly encourage all our patients to take action as soon as they notice the first signs of periodontitis.

As periodontitis progresses, the gums may retract from the teeth. This leads to the creation of periodontal pockets that can easily become infested with more bacteria and plaque. Once this happens, the condition can spread throughout the rest of the mouth with ease. If it reaches the jawbone and the connective tissues of teeth, it is probable that tooth loss will occur. Our goal is to stop the gum disease and manage the condition to prevent this from happening. We offer a wide variety of periodontal services to help manage gum disease at all stages. The periodontal services and treatments we offer include scaling and root planing, dental crown lengthening, gingivectomy, root surface debridement, laser treatment, ridge preservation and bone grafting.

What is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is widely recognized as the standard treatment for minor to moderate cases of periodontitis. This procedure involves using dental equipment to access the areas deep below the gum line and remove any buildups. From there, rough spots on the root surfaces are eliminated to prevent future accumulations.

What is Dental Crown Lengthening?

Dental crown lengthening is a surgical procedure designed to address the “gummy” smile that is caused by the swollen gum tissue that occurs with periodontitis. Our experts will cut into the patient’s gum line so that any excess gum tissue can be removed and reshaped. We may also use a dental crown lengthening procedure to access a tooth that has been covered up by swollen gum tissue.

What is a Gingivectomy?

A gingivectomy is a surgical procedure that is provided for moderate to severe cases of periodontitis that cannot be effectively treated with scaling and root planing.

What is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment for periodontitis involves using dental lasers to access and remove the excess gum tissue that surrounds teeth. The laser is also used to eliminate the harmful buildups and smooth out rough spots that could lead to future accumulations. Patients often prefer laser treatments over traditional treatments because it is usually less painful and features quicker recovery times.

What is Ridge Preservation?

Ridge preservation is a procedure that is used following tooth loss caused by severe periodontitis. The goal when performing this procedure is to prevent the jawbone from deteriorating so that a dental implant can be installed later. We will apply bone grafts to the site of the missing tooth to slow down any deterioration and keep the structure healthy. The procedure has a high success rate in helping to maintain a jawbone’s overall structure.

What is Bone Grafting?

A bone grafting procedure is a surgical technique that is used to restore a decayed or deteriorated jawbone. We will access the damaged structure and apply artificial bone material and advanced proteins to promote new bone growth. This will strengthen and restore the structure so that dental implants can be installed.