Periodontal Treatment

Boulder, Colorado

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, affects approximately 80% of Americans over the age of 45. If left untreated, periodontal disease will eventually lead to tooth loss as well as an erosion of the underlying bone structure. These issues are very serious, and can impact your ability to chew and speak. Periodontal disease can also cause your gums to recede, marring an otherwise beautiful smile. This disease has an association with:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Failed orthopedic surgery
• Problem pregnancies
• Acid reflux

Boulder family dentist, Dr. Gerald B. Savory, treats most mild to moderate cases of periodontal disease. Over the past three decades, he has seen a wide variety of gum issues, and he has the skills and experience necessary to provide you with effective treatment that will return your gums to a healthy state. For more severe cases of gum disease, Dr. Savory may work with a periodontal specialist to ensure that you receive the best possible care.

Diagnosing Gum Disease

Dr. Savory uses the Florida Probe to diagnose gum disease. This computerized technology helps measure periodontal pockets faster and more accurately than other instruments. The Florida Probe provides a visual tool to help you understand the progression of your gum health. At the end of your examination, you will leave our office with a colored diagram of your periodontal health. At your next dental screening, you will be able to see how your gum health has changed over time.

The Florida Probe is more than just an excellent diagnostic tool. It provides Dr. Savory with an effective method to educate you about the condition of your gums so that you can more easily practice good gum maintenance at home.

Periodontal Treatments

Dr. Savory uses a variety of periodontal treatment methods. He will recommend the appropriate treatment course based on your unique periodontal health issues. Your treatment may include:

• Standard prophylaxis – This treatment involves scaling the plaque above the gum line, flossing, and polishing the gum line using a rubber cup on a slow speed drill. Prophylaxis treatment is effective if you have minimal bone loss and only minor, localized gum disease. However, it is not ideal for patients with more severe periodontal conditions.
• Root scaling – This treatment will clean the plaque between your gums and teeth and on the surface of the roots. It is one of the most effective ways to treat moderate cases of gum disease.  Dr. Savory may use a local anesthetic to numb your gums and roots, minimizing any discomfort you may experience.
• Curettage – Curettage is performed to remove the soft tissue lining of your periodontal pockets, eliminate bacteria, and get rid of diseased gum tissue. Dr. Savory may use this technique in conjunction with root scaling to achieve a more thorough cleaning of your gums.
• Topical antibiotics – Dr. Savory may recommend topical antibiotics such as Arestin to treat your gum disease. Arestin contains small bead-like particles called microspheres which gradually release the antibiotic into your gums over a period of time. The antibiotic will kill any bacteria in your gums for up to 21 days.

Please contact our Boulder family dentist today to schedule your periodontal treatment appointment at Gunbarrel Dental Center, serving patients in Boulder, Gunbarrel, Longmont, Niwot, Louisville, Lafayette, Erie, and Superior, Colorado.

Disclaimer: The periodontal treatment information provided on this website by Dr. Gerald Savory is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. To learn more about periodontal treatment and family dentistry in the Boulder, Colorado area, please contact Gunbarrel Dental Center to schedule a consultation today.