While most patients are aware of the dangers that cavities pose to their teeth, they frequently overlook the critical role that gums play in their overall oral health. The reality is that the condition of your gums influences the health of your teeth—and maybe your overall health.

Periodontal disease is caused by a number of factors, including poor dental hygiene, smoking and tobacco use, and a poor diet. It is crucial to take preventative measures against periodontal disease, particularly if you have multiple risk factors.

Services we offer

Periodontal therapy is an umbrella term for a variety of procedures you might require if you have gum disease. These treatments are essential for restoring the condition of your teeth and gums and avoiding tooth loss. Gum disease can be treated surgically or non-surgically. At 222 Main Street Dental, we have a range of treatments and procedures aimed at preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions that affect the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.

Dental Cleaning (Prophylaxis)

Dental prophylaxis is a term used to describe a dental examination or cleaning. This is generally done to protect your teeth and prevent gum disease. It includes an extensive examination and evaluation of your mouth and teeth, as well as a thorough cleaning using an ultrasonic scaler, pick, or other instruments to remove tartar, plaque, and calcifications. After that, the teeth are polished, and either a fluoride treatment or a dental sealant is applied.

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

This thorough dental cleaning reaches beneath your gum line to remove tartar from all of your teeth, including their roots. To alleviate any discomfort or suffering, your dentist numbs your mouth with a local anesthetic. The scaling process is carried out by your dentist using an ultrasonic scaler. The scaler's vibrating metal tip removes tartar from your teeth above the gum line. Plaque in the gum pockets is flushed out by a water spray on the scaler, which also removes tartar. Root planing is similar to tooth scaling; however, it is performed on the tooth roots that are located below the gum line. Your dentist will use a tool to gently push your gum tissue aside, exposing the surface of your roots. The same tooth scaling instruments are used to remove tartar from the roots and smooth them.

Periodontal surgery

During follow-up visits, your dentist will measure the pockets around your gum tissue. If the pockets haven't been reduced, you may require periodontal surgery.

Bone grafting: Bone grafting is a procedure that replaces missing bone with bone from a donor or lab-made material.

Flap surgery: Flap surgery (pocket reduction surgery) is used to reduce the size of a gum pocket by lowering the gum line.

Soft tissue grafting: Soft tissue grafting uses tissue from the roof of your mouth (palate) or a donor to restore missing gum tissue.

At 222 Main Street Dental, we emphasize the importance of regular dental check-ups for the early detection and treatment of gum disease. If you suspect you may have gum disease or are concerned about your gum health, it's crucial to consult our dental professionals for an evaluation and appropriate treatment recommendations.

Call us at (508) 473-3424 for appointments or inquiries. We're conveniently located at 222 Main Street, Milford, MA 01757. We're here to provide you with exceptional dental care.

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