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Periodontics—Protecting the Foundation of Your Smile

Healthy gums are essential for good oral health and a confident, lasting smile. Periodontics focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease, one of the most common oral health concerns for adults. Gum disease often develops silently but can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and other systemic health issues if untreated.

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Our periodontal care emphasizes oral hygiene and good oral habits, using advanced therapies such as scaling and root planing and long-term maintenance to stop gum disease, restore gum health, and support lasting, healthy smiles.

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Why Periodontal Care Matters

Gums don’t just hold your teeth in place—they play a vital role in overall oral care and dental health. Gum disease develops when bacteria in plaque and tartar cause inflammation. In its early stage (gingivitis), it may cause only redness or bleeding while brushing. If it progresses to periodontitis, gums can pull away from teeth, bone may deteriorate, and tooth loss can occur.

 

Research also links gum disease to systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Our proactive periodontal care focuses on treating gum disease early and providing patients with the tools and therapies needed for lifelong oral health and comprehensive dental care.

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

Scaling and root planing, often called “deep cleaning,” is an essential periodontal care procedure that targets gum disease at its source. Unlike a standard cleaning, which removes plaque and tartar only above the gumline, this treatment focuses on bacteria and debris below the gum tissue and along the tooth roots, addressing infection in the soft tissue.

How It Works

  • Scaling: Specialized instruments carefully remove plaque and tartar from beneath the gum tissue and along the tooth roots.
  • Root Planing: The roots are smoothed to encourage reattachment of the gums and reduce areas where bacteria can accumulate.

 

The procedure is performed in sections of the mouth with local anesthesia to ensure maximum patient comfort.

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Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

  • Reduces gum inflammation and bleeding
  • Prevents progression of gum disease
  • Promotes reattachment of gum tissue to teeth
  • Protects against tooth loss and bone damage

 

Scaling and root planing is a crucial soft tissue treatment that restores gum health and supports overall oral and periodontal care.

Periodontal Maintenance

After treating a form of gum disease, ongoing periodontal care is crucial to prevent its recurrence. Periodontal maintenance is a specialized cleaning schedule designed for patients with a history of gum disease. Unlike routine dental cleanings, these appointments occur more frequently—typically every 3 to 4 months—depending on the severity of your condition and your individual needs. Our Sunnyvale dentists provide expert guidance and monitoring throughout this process.

Why It's Important

Gum disease is a chronic condition that can return if not continuously managed. Regular periodontal maintenance helps control infection, protect against bone loss and tooth mobility, and ensure long-term oral health. These appointments allow our Sunnyvale dentists to detect issues early, adjust treatment plans, and maintain strong, healthy gums for a lasting, confident smile.

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What Happens During Maintenance Visits?

  • Removal of plaque, tartar, and bacteria buildup below the gums
  • Monitoring of pocket depths around teeth to track gum health
  • Evaluation of bone stability and soft tissue response
  • Adjustments to at-home oral care routines as needed

Signs You May Need Periodontal Treatment

Gum disease can develop silently, often affecting the tooth surfaces, teeth, and gums without noticeable pain. Early recognition is crucial for preventing more serious periodontal gum disease.

 

If left untreated, these symptoms can progress into advanced periodontal gum disease, potentially leading to tooth loss or the need for complex dental treatments. Regular exams and professional cleanings help detect issues early, allowing for effective, minimally invasive care to protect your teeth and gums.

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Signs You May Need Periodontal Treatment

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums
  • Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth
  • Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
  • Gum recession (teeth appear longer)
  • Loose or shifting teeth

Periodontal Health and Overall Wellness

Your gums do more than just anchor teeth—they also impact overall health. Research shows a strong link between gum disease and chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even premature birth in pregnant women. The inflammation from periodontal infection can spread through the bloodstream, affecting other parts of the body.

 

Treating gum disease with procedures like guided tissue regeneration not only restores gum health but also helps reduce these systemic health risks. Maintaining periodontal health is an essential component of every patient’s comprehensive healthcare routine.

Our Approach to Comfortable Care

We know periodontal care may sound intimidating, but today’s techniques make it far more comfortable than most patients expect. We use gentle methods, advanced technology, and effective anesthetics to ensure your experience is stress-free. For patients with dental anxiety, we also offer calming options to help make each appointment easier. From your first consultation to your ongoing maintenance plan, our goal is to keep you informed, comfortable, and confident about your gum health every step of the way.

 

Healthy gums mean a healthy smile—and a healthier you. Whether you need a deep cleaning to stop gum disease or long-term periodontal maintenance to protect past treatments, our team is here to help. Don’t wait until gum disease progresses; early action is key. Schedule your periodontal care consultation today and take the first important step toward stronger gums, healthier teeth, and better overall wellness.