DULUTH DENTAL SERVICES
Periodontal Disease Treatment
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It often begins slowly, with early signs like bleeding gums or bad breath. If left untreated, it can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss.
According to the American Dental Association, about 42 percent of all U.S. adults 30 years of age or older have periodontitis. While common, it’s also highly treatable, especially when caught early.
At Chester Creek Dental, we take gum health seriously because we know how connected it is to your overall well-being. Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile and oral wellbeing.
Types of Periodontal Treatment
Treatment for periodontal disease depends on the stage and severity of the condition. In the early stages (gingivitis), it may be as simple as a thorough cleaning and more consistent care at home. In more advanced cases, we may recommend deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing to remove buildup below the gumline and help the gums heal.
Throughout the process, our team takes a gentle, personalized approach. You’ll never feel rushed or in the dark—we explain everything, listen carefully to your concerns, and create a care plan that feels right for you.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Periodontal Disease
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Thorough cleanings every three months
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Scaling and root planing
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Antibiotic therapy
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Patient education and hygiene instruction
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Referral to a Periodontist
Non-surgical treatments may take multiple sessions before change is noticeable.
With every treatment plan, we take the time to sit down and walk through it so you feel confident about your care. You’ll also receive ongoing guidance and support to help make the most of the treatment you receive.
Sometimes periodontal disease requires surgical intervention. These surgical procedures may be performed by an periodontist. We will refer you to the right professional depending on your situation.
Maintenance at home is key to proper periodontal care. We’ll schedule you for regular periodontal recall appointments and answer any questions so that you feel empowered and informed. We may recommend more frequent visits at first or discuss lifestyle habits that can support periodontal health.
Surgical Periodontal Treatment
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Gum Graft Surgery
Where tissue is taken from the palate or another donor source to cover exposed roots.
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Periodontal Pocket Reduction Procedures
Where gum tissue is folded back to allow for the removal of disease-causing bacteria. The tissue is sutured back in place, allowing the gum tissue to reattach to the bone at a more accessible level for at-home cleaning.
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Regenerative Procedures
After removing the bacteria, use of biologic materials can help promote the regeneration of periodontal tissues if there is bone destruction.
Benefits of Seeking Periodontal Treatment
Investing in your gum health can have powerful ripple effects. Not just for your mouth, but your whole body. Treating periodontal disease can help:
Prevent tooth loss
Reduce inflammation and bleeding
Improve your breath
Support heart health and diabetes management
Restore confidence in your smile
How Chester Creek Dental approaches periodontal disease treatment
We know going to the dentist, especially for something like gum disease, can feel stressful or intimidating. When you walk into Chester Creek Dental, you’ll notice a difference in how you’re treated and empowered in your oral care.
Spending time with you
We’ll never recommend services that don’t benefit you or rush you into a decision. We’ll walk through your options, explain what we see, and help you make the choice that fits your goals, budget, and comfort level.
A welcoming environment
Our office is calm, warm, and full of small personal touches—from the kids play area to the way you’re greeted. We want it to feel like a place you want to visit.
Listening first, always
Many of our patients say that they feel heard, understood, and genuinely cared for—and that means everything to us.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Disease Treatment
What happens if periodontal disease goes untreated?
Left untreated, it can lead to worsening bone loss, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss. It tends to progress slowly and painlessly, which is why we check for it at every routine visit rather than waiting for symptoms to become obvious.
What can I do at home to support my treatment?
Consistent brushing and flossing, using any tools we recommend (like an antimicrobial rinse or a water flosser), and keeping up with your maintenance cleaning schedule all make a real difference. We'll walk you through a routine that actually fits your life, not a generic list you'll abandon in a week.
Do you offer payment plans for periodontal treatment?
Yes. We're happy to talk through options that make treatment accessible — ask us during your evaluation.
What is scaling and root planing, and is it painful?
Scaling and root planing is a periodontal treatment that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the root surface. We use a gentle, comfort-first approach and local anesthesia where needed, so most patients describe it as far less uncomfortable than they expected. Some mild sensitivity afterward is normal and typically fades within a few days or weeks.
Can gum disease be reversed, or just managed?
Gingivitis, the earliest stage, is fully reversible with treatment and improved home care. Periodontitis, the more advanced stage, can't be fully reversed once bone loss has occurred, but it can be effectively managed and stabilized so it doesn't progress further.
What you can do next.
If you’ve noticed signs of gum disease, or it’s just been a while since your last checkup, it’s a good time to take the next step. Periodontal disease is manageable, and we’re here to help you through it with care and clarity.
Our Dental Office
1324 E 1st Street
Duluth, MN 55805
Hours
Monday–Friday
8am–5pm
Phone
(218) 724-1332