Gum Disease Treatment in Lake Charles, LA

Non-Surgical Gum Disease Treatment in the 70605 Area 

Gum disease is a progressive condition, and patients often require professional treatment to manage symptoms. At our Lake Charles, LA, practice, we offer non-surgical gum disease treatment to protect the longevity of our patients' smiles. Depending upon your needs, we can perform scaling and root planing, administer medication, and incorporate dental lasers for precision and efficiency. When left untreated, periodontal disease can cause gum recession, bone deterioration, and tooth loss in more severe cases. To help you achieve optimal oral health, Drs. Edward J. Hebert and Scott M. Hannaman can conduct a thorough evaluation of your smile, before recommending the most minimally invasive, yet effective treatment option for you.

We can eliminate harmful bacteria from below the gum line during scaling and root planing treatment.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Over time, bacteria and debris collect on the surface of teeth to form a sticky substance called "plaque." When plaque hardens, it becomes "tartar," which is hard to remove with everyday brushing and flossing. As plaque and tartar build up, they can cause the gums to become swollen and inflamed. This constitutes the initial stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis. If detected in this early phase, the effects can be reversed with non-surgical treatments, including medication and scaling and root planing (deep cleaning). However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, which can result in tissue and bone deterioration as well as widespread tooth loss.

Depending upon your needs, we can perform scaling and root planing, administer medication, and incorporate dental lasers for precision and efficiency.

Although poor oral hygiene is the number one cause of gum disease, patients who regularly brush and floss their teeth can still develop this condition. Patients at a higher risk for periodontal disease include those who:

• Smoke and use tobacco
• Are genetically predisposed
• Are pregnant
• Have a weak immune system
• Have poor nutrition

As a result, it is imperative to visit your dentist twice each year for preventive care appointments. During these visits, we can professionally clean your teeth and identify any underlying conditions so as to preserve your smile.

Common Signs of Gum Disease in Lake Charles, LA

If you have gum disease, you may experience:

• Gum recession
• Persistent bad breath
• Spaces between teeth
• Inflamed or tender gums
• Dental sensitivity
• Bleeding gums

If you are suffering from telltale symptoms of gingivitis, you should schedule an appointment with our team, so we can recommend the appropriate treatment for your needs.

Scaling and Root Planing 

If we detect signs of gum disease, we may recommend scaling and root planing. This non-surgical procedure is more affordable, less invasive, and has a much shorter recovery period than bone and tissue grafting. During treatment, we can numb your gums with a local anesthetic. Once you are comfortable, we can use a scaler to gently remove plaque buildup and harmful bacteria from the tooth surface and below the gum line. We can then smooth the tooth roots, removing any rough areas that could potentially house bacteria.

Advanced Laser Technology

At this time, we may also use our advanced diode laser to remove infected tissue and eliminate infection-causing bacteria. This technology reduces bleeding and swelling, as well as minimizes the impact on surrounding healthy tissue. After the procedure, we can apply an antibiotic ointment to the gums as a final defense against infection.

Contact Our 70605 Dentist Office for Healthier Teeth & Gums 

Non-surgical periodontal treatment can protect your oral health and help you avoid more costly restorative procedures in the future. Call our office at (377) 474-4892 or contact us online to schedule your consultation with one of our trusted doctors.