Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a prevalent oral health issue impacting nearly half of American adults over the age of 30, according to the CDC. This condition arises from a bacterial infection that targets both gum and bone tissue.

In its initial stage, known as gingivitis, the gums become inflamed and swollen but can often be reversed with proper oral hygiene practices. However, if left untreated, it advances to periodontitis, a more severe form that can only be managed, not cured. Poor oral hygiene is the primary contributor to the development and progression of gum disease.

How we treat gum disease depends on how severe your current condition is. Once you’ve come in for your appointment and our team has had the chance to inspect your situation, we can begin walking you through your options and explaining which treatment route may be best for your smile. That said, we’re excited to offer a wide range of options that can address and help manage gum disease at virtually any stage.

After your initial periodontal therapy cleanings, our team may decide to apply a topical antibiotic to your gums in order to further fight the infection. After being placed on your gums, the antibiotic will harden into a wax-like substance and slowly dissolve over the next few days. This will allow the medicine to reach and eliminate even the most deeply hidden bacteria. We may also prescribe an oral antibiotic if necessary.

Gum recession, where the tissue pulls away from the teeth and exposes the sensitive roots, is one of the most common symptoms of gum disease. In the past, the only way to address this issue was with an invasive gum graft, but at S Plainfield Dental, we don’t live in the past. Using the Chao Pinhole Technique, all it takes to restore your gum line is a tiny hole the size of a pin. Using special tools, your doctor can gently stretch and massage your gum line back to its original position, saving you from the incisions and sutures typically needed for this procedure.