Summit Pointe Dental

2002 Spring Arbor Road, Suite C, Jackson(517) 782-0900

A hygienist in a treatment room at Summit Pointe Dental

Periodontal therapy

Gum disease damages the tissue that holds your teeth in place. Treating it early protects your teeth and your jawbone.

First step
Removing built-up plaque and tartar
Also used
Antibiotics, topical first
Maintenance
The Perio Maintenance Plan
or call (517) 782-0900

What periodontal disease is

Periodontal disease is a gum disease that damages the tissues supporting your teeth. Early signs can include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, sensitivity, and swollen or tender gums. Left untreated it can lead to bone loss, loose teeth and eventually tooth loss.

How it is treated

Treatment depends on how advanced the problem is. It almost always starts with removing built-up plaque and tartar, because they carry the bacteria that cause the infection. Lowering the bacterial load can sometimes stop the infection on its own.

Antibiotics may also be used. Topical antibiotics are preferred because they reach high concentrations in the mouth without affecting the rest of the body; severe cases may need systemic antibiotics. When the disease has seriously damaged the gums and bone, surgery may be required.

Keeping it from coming back

Good daily brushing and flossing prevent the bacterial build-up behind gum disease, and professional cleanings twice a year catch early infection before it progresses. Smoking lowers the mouth's immunity, so cutting back or quitting helps too.

After treatment many patients return every three to four months for maintenance cleanings. The Perio Maintenance Plan covers three periodontal cleanings a year for $88 a month or $885 a year.

What patients say

Google reviews that mention this, word for word.

i love this place, my hygienist is always very nice, and isn’t rough on my teeth, i use to get my gums dug at all the time at a past place and this one has nothing but great, thank you

Alexander P. Google review, June 2024

I never really liked going to the dentist but Mallory and the staff at Summit Pointe changed that. Everyone was so kind and laid back. Mallory did a great job cleaning my teeth. I usually leave the dentist with sore gums and feeling like a mess. None of that after Mallory cleaned them. 6 hours later and they still feel shiny and clean. Not gritty at all. If Mallory isn’t cleaning your teeth your missing out!

Courtney L. Google review, September 2021

Questions

What are the early warning signs?

Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession and sensitivity. Swollen or tender gums can point to gingivitis or early gum disease.

How does scaling and root planing help?

It is a deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar below the gum line and smooths the tooth roots, which can help the gums reattach and reduce bacterial build-up.

Can gum disease be reversed?

In its early stage, gingivitis, it may be reversible with professional cleanings and better daily care. In later stages, treatment focuses on managing the condition and preventing further damage.