Periodontal Disease Treatment - Hardy Smiles

Periodontal Disease Treatment

Your gums are the foundation of your smile. At Hardy Family Dentistry, we take periodontal health seriously. Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, affects nearly half of all adults and is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. Fortunately, with early diagnosis and professional care, gum disease can be effectively treated and even reversed in its early stages.

We provide advanced, patient-centered treatment for periodontal disease in Louisburg, NC, using the latest techniques and technologies to preserve your oral health and prevent long-term complications.

Am I a Candidate for Periodontal Disease Treatment?

You may be a candidate if you experience:

Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
Chronic bad breath
Gum recession or loose teeth
A family history of gum disease
Medical conditions like diabetes or heart disease

Early treatment is critical. We utilize advanced diagnostic tools, including digital X-rays and periodontal charting, to thoroughly evaluate your gum health.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a progressive infection of the gums and bone that support your teeth. It starts with gingivitis, a mild inflammation of the gums, and can progress to periodontitis, where the bone and connective tissues begin to deteriorate.

Common Signs Include

Red, swollen, or tender gums
Bleeding when brushing or flossing
Gum recession
Loose or shifting teeth
Persistent bad breath
Pus between gums and teeth

If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to systemic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

Benefits of Treating Periodontal Disease

Prevent Tooth Loss: Periodontal disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Timely treatment helps preserve the bone and gum structures that support your teeth. By controlling infection and preventing further damage, professional care allows you to maintain your natural smile for as long as possible.

Reduce Systemic Health Risks: Research has shown a strong link between periodontal disease and systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. By managing gum inflammation and infection, treatment helps lower systemic inflammation and supports your overall health, particularly if you have underlying chronic conditions.

Improve Breath and Appearance: Chronic bad breath (halitosis) and red, swollen gums are common symptoms of gum disease. Treating the infection reduces bacterial buildup, eliminates odor, and improves the appearance of your smile by restoring healthy, pink gum tissue that frames and supports your teeth.
Enhance Overall Oral Comfort: Untreated gum disease can cause gum tenderness, sensitivity, and difficulty chewing. Periodontal treatment reduces inflammation, eliminates discomfort, and helps you eat, speak, and smile without pain, restoring comfort and improving your overall quality of life.
Save on Future Costs: Early intervention can prevent the need for costly procedures, such as tooth extractions, dental implants, or surgery. Regular treatment and maintenance help preserve your natural teeth and reduce long-term dental expenses by avoiding advanced-stage complications.

Stages of Periodontal Disease

Understanding the stages of gum disease helps in early detection and effective treatment:

Gingivitis (Early Stage)

Gingivitis is the earliest and most reversible stage of periodontal disease. It occurs due to plaque buildup along the gumline, causing inflammation, redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing or flossing. At this stage, there is no bone loss, and professional dental cleaning combined with improved oral hygiene can fully restore gum health. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent progression to more advanced stages.

Early Periodontitis

If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to early periodontitis. At this point, the infection begins to destroy the supporting bone around the teeth. You may experience deeper gum pockets, mild bone loss, and slight tooth mobility. Gums may recede slightly, and bad breath can become persistent. Deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planning, are typically necessary to manage the disease at this stage.

Moderate Periodontitis

Moderate periodontitis is marked by increased inflammation, deeper pockets between the teeth and gums, and more noticeable bone loss. Your teeth may shift slightly, and you may experience discomfort when chewing. The risk of tooth loss increases as connective tissue supporting the teeth begins to break down. Treatment at this stage may involve deep cleanings, localized antibiotics, and possibly surgical intervention to halt further progression.

Advanced Periodontitis

In advanced periodontitis, there is severe destruction of gum tissue, periodontal ligament, and bone. Teeth may become loose, shift significantly, or even fall out of place. Gum recession is often pronounced, and chewing may be painful. This stage can severely impact your bite, appearance, and overall oral health. Surgical procedures, such as flap surgery or bone grafts, may be required to restore function and preserve your smile.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

The most common cause is plaque—a bacterial film that forms on your teeth and gums. If not removed, it hardens into tartar, leading to inflammation and infection.

Other contributing factors include:

Poor oral hygiene
Smoking or tobacco use
Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause)
Diabetes and other chronic diseases
Genetics
Certain medications (e.g., those that reduce saliva)

At Hardy Family Dentistry, we help you understand your personal risk factors and create a plan tailored to your needs.

Treatment Options Available for Periodontal Disease

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

This non-surgical procedure removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline, smoothing the tooth roots to prevent bacterial buildup. It allows the gums to reattach to clean root surfaces, reduces pocket depth, and promotes healing. It’s typically the first step in treating mild to moderate gum disease.

Local Antibiotic Therapy

After deep cleaning, localized antibiotics may be placed directly into periodontal pockets to eliminate bacteria and reduce inflammation. These medications help target stubborn infections and enhance the effectiveness of scaling and root planing. This conservative approach supports tissue healing and limits the spread of disease.

Laser Gum Therapy

Laser therapy utilizes focused light energy to remove diseased gum tissue, disinfect pockets, and stimulate healing without the need for incisions or stitches. This modern technique offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery, with reduced discomfort, faster recovery, and improved outcomes for patients with moderate to advanced periodontitis.

Periodontal Surgery

In severe cases, surgical procedures like flap surgery, bone grafting, or guided tissue regeneration may be necessary. These treatments aim to reduce deep pockets, repair damage, and regenerate lost bone and tissue. Surgery helps stabilize teeth, restore gum contours, and support long-term oral health.

Maintenance Therapy

Following active treatment, regular periodontal maintenance every 3–4 months is crucial to prevent recurrence. These visits include deep cleanings, pocket monitoring, and personalized oral care guidance. Regular maintenance ensures that inflammation remains under control and helps protect the investment in your periodontal health.

Preventing Periodontal Disease

Good oral hygiene and lifestyle choices play a critical role in prevention. Here’s how to protect your gums:

Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste Floss every day to clean between teeth Use an antimicrobial mouthwash as recommended Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients like calcium and Vitamin C Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco Keep chronic conditions, such as diabetes, under control Visit your dentist every 6 months for cleanings and exams.

Patient Testimonials: What Our Patients Say

Join our happy patients and rediscover your smile!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is periodontal disease curable?

Gingivitis, the earliest stage, is reversible. More advanced stages can be managed and stabilized with professional care and maintenance.

Is treatment painful?

Most procedures are performed under local anesthesia. Patients typically report minimal discomfort and fast recovery times.

How often will I need follow-ups?

You may need periodontal maintenance visits every 3–4 months, depending on your condition and progress.

Can children get gum disease?

While rare, children and teens can develop gingivitis. Early hygiene education and regular checkups are key.

Protect Your Smile Today

Healthy gums are essential to a healthy life. If you suspect symptoms of periodontal disease, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the easier it is to reverse or manage the condition. Let our team help you restore confidence in your smile and enjoy a healthier future, starting today. – Schedule a Consultation Today! at Hardy Smiles in Louisburg, NC 27549, or Call Us at: (919)-726-9825

DENTAL FINANCING OPTIONS AT HARDY SMILES

Our office is in-network with all major insurance providers. Please bring your insurance card to each appointment so we can make sure your information is as up-to-date as possible. If you do not find your insurance provider here; please call at (919) 726-9825 for clarity.

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Experience Dentistry At Its Finest Here.

jahayra tshipamba

19:51 20 Feb 25

I had an amazing experience here and will forever continue to keep coming here and recommend all my family and friends dr James was so sweet and comforting, I had a tooth pushed back after injuring myself, i went to lane and associates were the the doctor told me there’s nothing he could do for me I was devastated because I had my front tooth hanging down I couldn’t eat and was in so much pain but dr James was able to fix my tooth the same day I called and it only took him two hours he numbed my mouth and I couldn’t feel anything during and after the procedure plus I was charged an amazing price without insurance his staff were also so kinda im so thankful I went here dr James is definitely the best dentist I ever been too

LaChelle S

20:08 07 Feb 24

Got next day appointment for impacted wisdom teeth. Dr. Hardy and his staff were very professional and efficient. 2nd removal took less than 2 mins after anesthesia.

Leonard Holden Jr

12:55 14 Dec 23

Going to the dentist for me, is like watching a scary movie that constantly make you jump. Dr. Hardy dentist made me feel like a brand new soul

S C

14:56 17 Jul 23

I went to this dental office as a new patient. From the administrative staff on down to the dentist. My experience was very personable and they all made me feel confident in my smile without any work being done. Doctor Hardy'schairside manner was great and he is very professional. I am a new patient and will be back asap to start my treatment. I drove about a hour and 15 to get to this office and will do it again. Thank you all. Shout out to Brian Dowson for the recommendation! I am referring my mom and my brother. It's going to be a family affair.

Periodontal Disease Treatment - Hardy Smiles