Periodontal Treatment in Winslow, AZ

At Winslow Dental, we are committed to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. One of the most common concerns we address is periodontal disease, also known as gum disease—a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the tissues supporting your teeth.

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues that support your teeth, including the gums and bone. It often starts as gingivitis, a mild inflammation caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. If not addressed, it can advance to periodontitis, where the gums start to recede from the teeth, forming pockets that trap bacteria and cause bone loss. As the condition worsens, it may result in loose teeth, further gum recession, and, if left untreated, ultimately lead to tooth loss.

Diagnosis of periodontal disease involves a thorough evaluation by your dentist. During the examination, your gums are checked for signs of inflammation, bleeding, and recession. The dentist will also measure the depth of the pockets around your teeth using a periodontal probe to assess the severity of the infection. In some cases, digital imaging may be used to evaluate bone health and detect areas of bone loss.

Early detection is key, as timely treatment can help control the infection, prevent further damage, and restore gum health. Our team at Winslow Dental reviews your medical history and discusses risk factors such as smoking or diabetes, which can increase your susceptibility to gum disease. Early detection and personalized treatment at Winslow Dental are essential to prevent further damage and help you maintain a healthy, confident smile.

At Winslow Dental, we want to help you recognize the early warning signs of gum problems, as these issues often begin subtly and are easy to overlook.

Common Symptoms to Watch For:

• Red or Swollen Gums: If your gums are red, swollen, or feel inflamed, it could indicate irritation or the early stages of gum disease. Healthy gums are typically pink and firm, so any changes in their colour or texture should be seen as a warning sign.

• Bleeding While Brushing or Flossing: Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing, is often an early symptom of gum disease, typically gingivitis. This happens when plaque builds up along the gumline, causing inflammation.

• Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing may be a sign of bacteria buildup in your gums, often linked to gum disease.

• Tender or Painful Gums: Gums that are sensitive or sore to the touch may indicate an infection or irritation in the gum tissue.

• Receding Gums: If your gums appear to be pulling away from your teeth, or if your teeth start to look longer, it may be a sign of gum recession, often caused by untreated gum disease.

When to Seek Dental Care:

• Loose or Shifting Teeth: If your teeth become loose or shift positions, it may be due to advanced gum disease affecting the bone structure.

• Changes in Bite or Tooth Fit: If your bite feels different or your teeth no longer fit together as they should, this could indicate a gum problem affecting the stability of your teeth.

• Pus Between Teeth and Gums: Pus or a yellowish discharge from your gums is a sign of infection and requires immediate attention from a dentist.

Early detection and treatment of gum problems can prevent more serious dental issues down the road, so it’s important to stay aware of these warning signs and see a dentist if any persist. If you observe any of these symptoms, we encourage you to schedule a visit with the caring team at Winslow Dental as soon as possible. Your oral health is our top priority, and we’re here to help you address any concerns promptly and effectively.

At Winslow Dental, we understand that gum disease—also known as periodontal disease—is a common but serious oral health issue. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is mainly caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums. When plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria, isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be cleaned off by a dentist. This bacterial buildup leads to inflammation of the gums, causing early-stage gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into more severe forms of gum disease, such as periodontitis, which requires periodontal treatment.

Other factors that contribute to the development of gum disease include poor oral hygiene habits, smoking or chewing tobacco, hormonal changes (such as those during pregnancy or menopause), certain medications, and a family history of gum disease. Conditions like diabetes, stress, and certain illnesses can also make individuals more susceptible to gum problems. Inadequate nutrition, particularly a lack of vitamin C, can weaken the immune system and make it harder for the body to fight off infections, including gum disease.

When gum disease progresses to an advanced stage, periodontal treatment is required to eliminate infection, restore gum health, and prevent tooth loss. At Winslow Dental, our experienced team is dedicated to helping you prevent, detect, and treat all stages of gum disease. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings at our practice are essential for maintaining healthy gums and a confident smile.

At Winslow Dental, we understand that every patient’s needs are unique—especially when it comes to treating gum disease. The duration of periodontal treatment can vary greatly, depending on the severity of your gum disease, the specific procedures needed, and how well you respond to therapy.

The duration of periodontal treatment can vary depending on the severity of the gum disease and the type of treatment required. For early-stage gum disease, such as gingivitis, treatment may involve professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene at home. This can often be completed in a single visit and may not require ongoing treatment if the disease is caught early.

For more advanced stages, such as periodontitis, treatment may require deeper cleaning, such as scaling and root planing, which may take one to two hours per session. This type of treatment is typically done over multiple visits, with each session focusing on different areas of the mouth. In some cases, more extensive treatments such as flap surgery, periodontal therapy, or bone grafting may be needed, which can take longer and may require several follow-up appointments.

Overall, the length of periodontal treatment depends on your specific needs, the extent of the gum disease, and how well you respond to treatment. Maintenance visits every 3 to 4 months may also be recommended to ensure the disease does not return. Your dentist will outline a personalized treatment plan and provide an estimated timeline based on your individual condition. Our team at Winslow Dental is here to support you every step of the way, helping you prevent recurrence and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.

At Winslow Dental, Dr. Brent J. Gardner, DDS, is committed to providing expert periodontal care to restore and maintain your gum health. With his years of experience and a compassionate approach, Dr. Gardner offers personalized treatments designed to address all stages of gum disease. His goal is to prevent further complications, such as tooth loss, by catching gum issues early and offering effective, tailored solutions.

Dr. Gardner takes the time to thoroughly assess each patient’s unique situation and develops a comprehensive treatment plan that aligns with their specific needs. Whether you are dealing with mild gum irritation or more advanced gum disease, you can trust Dr. Gardner’s expertise in delivering gentle and precise care. With ongoing support and regular check-ups, Dr. Gardner ensures that your gums stay healthy, helping you achieve lasting oral health and a confident smile.

For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 321 W 2nd St, Winslow, AZ 86047. We serve patients from Winslow AZ, West Winslow AZ, Joseph City AZ, Leupp AZ, Holbrook AZ and surrounding areas.