Expert Gum Disease Treatment in Meridian, MS

Do You Have Gum Disease? Common Symptoms

Key indicators of gum disease include:

• Gums that are red, swollen, or tender
• Bleeding gums when you brush or floss
• Receding gums, making teeth appear longer
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose or shifting teeth

Stages of Gum Disease: Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis

Gingivitis:

This is the earliest, mildest stage of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Gingivitis is often reversible with professional cleanings and improved home care.

Periodontitis:

If gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis. At this stage, the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. The body’s immune response and the bacterial toxins start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. Without proper periodontitis treatment, this can lead to bone loss, receding gums, and eventually, tooth loss.

Periodontist vs. General Dentist for Gum Disease

While a general dentist can diagnose and treat early gingivitis, a periodontist is the specialist to see for any stage of gum disease, especially periodontitis. A periodontist has three years of advanced surgical training focused specifically on the gums and underlying bone. Dr. Herrington is an expert in diagnosing the severity of the disease and providing the full spectrum of treatments, from non-surgical deep cleanings to complex surgical repairs.

For comprehensive and effective gum disease treatment, a periodontist is the most qualified professional to restore your oral health.

Non-Surgical Gum Disease Treatment

For mild to moderate cases, Dr. Herrington can provide effective, non-invasive care:

Scaling and Root Planing:

This deep cleaning procedure is the gold standard for periodontitis treatment. Plaque and tartar are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling), and the tooth roots are smoothed (planing) to help the gums reattach and prevent future bacteria buildup.

Antibiotic Therapy:

We may place a localized antibiotic like ARESTIN® directly into the infected gum pockets to eliminate bacteria and help reduce pocket depth.

Surgical Periodontitis Treatment

For advanced disease, surgical intervention may be necessary:

Laser Periodontal Therapy (LANAP®):

This advanced protocol uses a specific dental laser to remove infected tissue and kill bacteria without harming healthy tissue. LANAP is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional flap surgery with a much faster, more comfortable recovery.

Pocket Reduction Surgery (Flap Surgery):

The gums are gently folded back to remove tartar buildup deep within the pockets. The underlying bone may be recontoured to eliminate areas where bacteria can hide.

Bone Grafting:

To regenerate bone lost to periodontitis, a dental bone graft can be placed. This helps to support the existing teeth or prepare the site for a future dental implant.

Soft Tissue Graft:

Used to treat significant receding gums, a soft tissue graft covers exposed tooth roots, reduces sensitivity, and protects against further bone loss.

Pinhole® Surgical Technique:

A minimally invasive alternative to a traditional soft tissue graft for correcting receding gums.

To ensure your complete comfort, we offer sedation dentistry.