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20171 Icenic Trail
Lakeville, MN 55044
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20171 Icenic Trail
Lakeville, MN 55044

Periodontal Procedures in Lakeville

Periodontal Maintenance Program Photo
Lakeville Dental provides periodontal services in Lakeville, Minnesota. Call 952-469-3300 or contact us today to learn more and make an appointment.

What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?

Periodontal (gum) disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth.  Toxins produced by bacteria in plaque cause an infection that irritates and can eventually destroy gum tissue and bone, leading to tooth loss. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and can be reversible if caught early and with professional treatment and good at-home oral care. Symptoms may include:

  • Red, swollen, tender gums
  • Bleeding while brushing and flossing
  • Bad breath
  • Receding gums

It is important to diagnose and treat gum disease in this early stage before it progresses to periodontitis.

Types of Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Gingivitis

The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis can be reversible if caught early and with professional treatment and good at-home oral care. It is important to diagnose and treat gum disease in this early stage before it progresses to periodontitis.

Symptoms may include:

  • Red, swollen, tender gums
  • Bleeding while brushing and flossing
  • Bad breath
  • Receding gums

Periodontitis

Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where plaque can spread and grow below the gum line, causing a chronic inflammatory response where gum tissue and bone tissue begin to break down. Periodontitis is classified in stages ranging from initial to severe as each case is unique. As gum disease progresses, gums pull further away from the teeth creating pockets as more gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth are destroyed.

Treatment for periodontitis can vary and is unique to each stage and grade. Treatment may include a referral to a periodontist.

Symptoms of periodontitis may include:
  • Red, swollen, tender gums
  • Bleeding while brushing, flossing, and eating
  • Bad breath
  • Receding gums
  • Sores in the mouth and pus between gums and teeth
  • Loose or separating teeth
  • Change in your bite

Periodontal Services and Procedures

Periodontal services provide a variety of benefits for patients, including:

  • Treat gum disease. Periodontal care can treat existing gum disease by removing plaque and reducing bacteria, allowing the gum tissue to heal.
  • Prevent gum disease. Many periodontal procedures can prevent gum disease from occuring or worsening.
  • Repair damage to the periodontal tissues. When gum disease goes untreated for an extended period of time, it causes damage to the gums and other support structures for the teeth. Some periodontal procedures repair these damaged tissues to restore adequate support for your teeth.
  • Improve your smile. Repairing or reshaping periodontal tissue can give you a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
  • Preserve your natural teeth. Periodontal care for the support structures of your teeth will help preserve your natural teeth so that they stay in place for as long as possible, preferably the rest of your life.

Procedures Offered

We provide the following periodontal services:

  • Periodontal maintenance. A periodontal maintenance program involves regular deep teeth cleaning to remove plaque. You should go to the dentist more frequently for plaque removal if you are at a higher risk of gum disease or have gum disease.
  • Scaling and root planing. Scaling involves the removal of hardened plaque (known as tartar or calculus) from the teeth and below the gum line. Root planing is the process of smoothing the surface of the tooth roots so that the gum tissue can bond effectively to keep plaque out. These procedures are typically performed together for the best results.
  • Arestin® antibiotics. Gum disease is a bacterial infection, and treatment can be more effective when antibiotics are used. Arestin® consists of microspheres of medication placed directly under the gum tissue that gradually release over time to fight bacteria.
  • Perio Protect™ Tray Delivery System. Perio Protect™is a minimally invasive FDA-cleared medical device that offers periodontal patients comfortable treatment and great results. The Perio Protect trays are worn for only 15 minutes a day and are customized for each patient and anchor the medication gel below the gums, allowing it to treat gum disease more effectively. Once periodontal disease (also known as gum disease or gingivitis) is under control, this system will continue to be effective in maintaining a healthy oral environment.

Do I Need Periodontal Care?

If you have gum disease, characterized by irritated, swollen, or bleeding gums, and bad breath, you are a good candidate for periodontal care. Early stage gum disease, called gingivitis, is usually easy to treat. However, progressive gum disease that has gone untreated or that doesn’t respond to basic treatment may require more in-depth procedures. Some patients may need a periodontal maintenance program to keep gum disease at bay, with more frequent cleanings and procedures. We will recommend periodontal care if you show symptoms of gum disease when you come in for regular cleanings and exams.

Why Choose Lakeville Dental?

At Lakeville Dental we are a judgment free dental practice. You should never feel ashamed of the condition of your teeth and gums. It is our job to help you improve and maintain your dental and oral health, and we do so to the best of our ability. We provide care in a comfortable environment where you can feel relaxed and calm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontics

Why are some people at a higher risk of developing gum disease?
There are a few risk factors that contribute to the likelihood of developing gum disease. The first is oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day can lower your chances. Limiting sugary foods and beverages can reduce the amount of plaque bacteria in your mouth to lower your risk of gum disease. If you are pregnant or have diabetes your risk is higher.
How often do I need periodontal maintenance?
Your dentist will recommend a schedule based on your individual needs. The average patient with healthy teeth should have cleanings and exams every 6 months. But someone who is at a greater risk or who has recurring gum disease may need to have their teeth cleaned every 3 months.
When should I see a periodontist?
We provide a wide range of periodontal procedures. Our doctors have the knowledge and experience necessary to handle most of your periodontal needs. However, if there happens to be a situation where a specialist is needed, we will refer you to a periodontist.
To learn more about periodontics, call 952-469-3300 or contact us today to make an appointment.

Contact our office today to schedule your appointment!

20171 Icenic Trail Lakeville, MN 55044
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