Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, attacks the gums and bone surrounding and supporting the teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is caused plaque forming on the teeth and under the gum line. If you notice any of the following symptoms, our dentist may recommend gum treatment:

• Gums that bleed easily
• Swollen, tender, or red gums
• Receding gums
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Any change in your bite
• Any change in the fit of your dentures

Professional dental cleanings may be recommended as periodontal treatment. Our dentist may recommend that you come in for your dental cleaning more than twice a year to keep the periodontal disease under control.

Scaling and root planing is done if our dentist discovers that you have plaque or tartar under the gums. This procedure is sometimes called “deep cleaning.” During this treatment, Dr. Carol Halloran will scrape plaque and tartar off of the tooth and from below the gum line. This part of the procedure is called scaling. Planing involves making the root smooth so that plaque and tartar have a harder time adhering to it.

Please call Crossroads Dental today to learn more about treatment for gum disease in Waterloo, Iowa, and to schedule an appointment.