Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Healthy gums also help us to have a healthy body. Periodontal therapy treats gum disease to restore comfort and stability in your smile and can improve your overall health as well.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease begins when plaque bacteria accumulate around the gumline. Early stages (gingivitis) can often be reversed with professional cleanings and good oral hygiene.
In more advanced cases (periodontitis), the infection damages the bone and soft tissue that support your teeth. The inflammation that comes from periodontitis circulates throughout your body and can affect your entire systemic health.
Common signs of gum disease include:
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession or sensitivity
- Loose teeth or changes in bite alignment
If you notice these symptoms, periodontal therapy is the key to preventing further damage.
What Is Periodontal Therapy?
Periodontal therapy is a gum disease treatment focused on eliminating infection, stopping disease progression, and helping the gums and supporting bone heal. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to receding gums, bone loss, and eventually, tooth loss.
Our team at Periodontal Associates offers both non-surgical and surgical options, using advanced technology and proven techniques to protect your gum health and overall well-being.
Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy
Many patients can manage or even reverse early gum disease without surgery. Non-surgical periodontal therapy focuses on deep cleaning and bacterial control to restore gum health.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is one of the most effective first steps in periodontal disease treatment. Often called a deep cleaning, this procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline. The tooth roots are then smoothed (planed) to help the gums reattach and reduce pocket depth.
Antimicrobial Irrigations and Powders
Antimicrobial solutions or powders may be used during treatment to kill bacteria inside periodontal pockets. These help reduce inflammation and promote faster healing.
Laser Bacterial Reduction
Laser Bacterial ReductioN (LBR) uses laser energy to gently remove diseased tissue and sterilize pocket areas, all while preserving healthy gum tissue. This reduces bacteria, promotes healing, and enhances comfort.
Local Antibiotics
In some cases, antibiotics are administered directly into periodontal pockets to reduce bacterial growth and inflammation. This localized treatment supports healing and enhances the results of scaling and root planing.
Periodontal Trays
Custom-fitted trays deliver medication directly below the gumline at home, allowing ongoing treatment between visits. This approach helps maintain gum health and control bacteria long-term.
Advanced Periodontal Procedures
When gum disease has progressed or bone loss is present, surgical therapy may be needed to restore structure and support.
Pocket Reduction Therapy
Pocket reduction (also known as flap surgery) gently repositions gum tissue and removes bacteria beneath the surface. This creates a shallower pocket, making it easier to maintain oral hygiene and prevent future infection.
Guided Tissue Regeneration
For areas with significant bone loss, guided tissue regeneration promotes the regrowth of both bone and gum tissue. A biocompatible membrane is placed between the bone and gum to allow natural healing and stabilization of teeth or dental implants.
Laser Periodontal Therapy (LPT)Unlike bacterial reduction, this technique actually aids in tissue regeneration. It uses a different type of laser (Nd:YAG) to encourage healing of the supporting bone and gum tissue around diseased teeth and dental implants.
Did You Know?
Gum disease is closely connected to your overall health. Studies show links between periodontal disease and conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic inflammation. Treating gum disease improves both oral and systemic health, helping prevent long-term complications and promoting overall wellness.
Maintain Your Results
After active treatment, regular periodontal maintenance visits are essential to maintain your gum health and prevent the recurrence of infection. To maintain your results:
- Brush twice daily with a soft or electric toothbrush to reduce plaque buildup.
- Floss or use interdental cleaners to remove bacteria between teeth.
- Rinse with antimicrobial mouthwash to lower bacterial levels.
- Avoid smoking, which increases the risk of periodontal disease.
- Maintain regular periodontal exams to detect early signs of recurrence or bone loss.
Consistent professional care and good oral hygiene habits help ensure lasting results and protect your overall oral health.
Why Patients Choose Periodontal Associates
For over 50 years, Periodontal Associates has been the trusted choice for periodontal disease treatment in Centennial and Aurora, CO. Our specialists provide compassionate, evidence-based care focused on your comfort and long-term results. Patients choose us because we:
- Perform comprehensive periodontal examinations using advanced imaging
- Use technology like laser dentistry and 3D imaging for precision
- Offer personalized treatment plans for every stage of gum disease
- Provide full-service periodontal and implant care in one location
Insurance and Financing
Periodontal Associates accepts most major dental insurance plans and will verify your benefits before your treatment to minimize surprises. Our team provides estimates in advance and helps you understand your coverage.
For any costs not covered by insurance, we offer financing options through CareCredit and Alpheon, making it easier to move forward with the treatment you need.
Learn MoreSchedule a Consultation
Rebuild your smile’s foundation with dental bone grafting at Periodontal Associates. To book an appointment at our Centennial location, call (303) 795-5700. To book an appointment at our Aurora location, call (303) 755-4500.
FAQs
Is periodontal therapy painful?
Most treatments are performed using local anesthesia or gentle laser techniques to ensure patient comfort and minimize discomfort. Patients typically experience minimal discomfort and can return to daily activities quickly.
How long does periodontal treatment take?
Treatment time depends on the severity of your gum disease. Non-surgical therapy typically requires one or two visits, while surgical procedures and follow-ups are customized to meet each patient’s specific needs.
Can gum disease come back after treatment?
Yes, gum disease can recur if bacteria are not controlled. That’s why consistent oral hygiene, regular periodontal maintenance, and professional cleanings are essential.
Where can I find gum disease treatment near me?
Periodontal Associates has two convenient locations to serve patients across the Denver area. Our Aurora office is located at 2900 South Peoria Street, Building D, Aurora, CO 80014, and our Centennial office is at 2101 E. Arapahoe Rd., Suite 101, Centennial, CO 80122. Both locations provide the same high level of care in a welcoming environment.
