Gum Disease Treatment
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth. Left untreated, it can wreak havoc on your oral health.
Gum disease treatment utilizes a variety of procedures to reduce bacteria and infection, preserving the health and function of your smile.
Dr. John W. Starr of Golden Triangle Periodontal Center in Columbus and Starkville, MS, can expertly treat all forms of gum disease...
How do I know if I have gingivitis or periodontitis?
Common Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gingivitis and periodontitis can exhibit a number of symptoms. You need to schedule a visit with our periodontist in Columbus or Starkville if you have:
What Causes Gum Disease?
Plaque and tartar constantly accumulate in the oral cavity. If these irritants are not removed from the teeth frequently, they can aggravate the gum tissue. The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis.
If the disease progresses, infection sets up beneath the gums and damages the periodontal tissues. This is referred to as periodontitis, and it can lead to serious oral and overall health issues if left untreated.
"I Highly Recommend Dr. Starr!" Read Our Positive Reviews
Jameka Conner
July 17, 2020
Dr.Starr and Staff provided my son with exceptional service!!! I highly recommend Dr.Starr!! My son was awaken with flowers that Dr.Starr and Staff had delivered too our home after his surgery!! One word “Exceptional”!
Rose Pruitt
August 8, 2019
Very caring staff who stays up to date on changes with perio. Great at educating patients and area dental professionals on new info and techniques for treating perio. Very nice people on every level!!!
Diagnosing Gum Disease in Three Steps
Our periodontist will recommend appropriate treatment based on the severity of the disease...
Treating Gum Disease
As a specialist in treating the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, Dr. Starr offers numerous treatments for gingivitis and periodontitis. In any procedure, we always prioritize patient comfort. We offer several forms of dental sedation, including nitrous oxide and intravenous (IV) sedation. We also offer several financing options to make treatment affordable for everyone.
Some of the most common gum disease treatments include:
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Scaling and Root Planing
Mild to moderate periodontitis is generally treated with scaling and root planing. Also called a deep dental cleaning, this procedure involves disinfecting and smoothing the root surfaces. For the patient, this process is similar to a regular cleaning with a general dentist. However, local anesthesia can be administered for your comfort.
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LANAP (Laser Therapy)
In the past, moderate to advanced periodontitis was treated with traditional gum surgery using scalpels and sutures. Our practice in Columbus is proud to use advanced LANAP™laser technology instead of scalpels to clean out infection around the root surfaces. This process also kills oral bacteria, removes tartar, and seals the periodontal pockets to reduce the risk of recontamination.
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Gingivectomy
Periodontitis can lead to diseased gum tissue. A gingivectomy removes infected tissue so that healthy tissue can regenerate. This procedure was traditionally completed using a scalpel, but it can also be performed using LANAP therapy, which eradicates damaged tissue while leaving healthy tissue in place.
Maintaining Results
At-Home Care
Once patients undergo periodontal treatment at our offices in Columbus or Starkville, MS, they must be committed to maintaining good oral health. Brush and floss daily, using the techniques recommended by our team.
Exams and Cleanings
Schedule regular dental examinations and professional cleanings. These appointments will keep bacteria at healthy levels and reduce the risk of relapse. The frequency of visits can be determined by your dentist, depending on your unique needs.
Treating Tooth Loss Caused by Gum Disease
If periodontal disease has led to tooth loss, Dr. Starr can recommend an appropriate replacement option. Dental implants are popular among our patients in Columbus, and Starkville, MS. Our doctor can surgically place implants in the jaw to replace missing teeth roots. Implants are then able to support crowns, bridges, and even dentures. To qualify for dental implants, gum disease must be treated. You can learn more during a consultation at our practice.
Dr. Starr has performed thousands of dental implant surgeries.
