Periodontal Disease

Learn more about Periodontal Disease and request your appointment below!
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More About Periodontal Disease

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Periodontal diseases are ailments that affect the tissue and bone that support teeth. These diseases can often go untreated as they do not cause any pain. However, a prompt diagnosis of periodontal disease can help prevent expensive treatments or, even worse, tooth loss.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal diseases are infections that affect the supporting structures of the gum tissue and teeth. Though these infections are pretty standard, they can be cured successfully with early intervention.
The gum tissue fits around each tooth like a shield in a healthy oral cavity. A fissure called a sulcus is formed when the gum meets the tooth. This fissure should measure roughly about three millimeters in depth when your gums are healthy and disease-free.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

  • Gums that bleed easily
  • Red, swollen or tender gums
  • Gum recession
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Pus between the teeth and gums
  • Loose or separating teeth
  • Improper bite
  • Changes in the denture shape
However, it is still possible to have periodontal disease even if you don’t experience any symptoms. That’s why regular dental exams and gum assessments are essential.

Periodontal Disease Treatment

Most periodontal disease treatments have many benefits and will increase the chances of retaining your natural teeth. Moreover, the chances of severe health problems associated with periodontal diseases will be minimized.

Scaling and Root Planing

This non-surgical therapy usually involves a thorough cleaning process, called scaling and root planing. It is also called deep cleaning and helps remove plaque and tartar deposits on enamel and tooth-root surfaces. This procedure enables the gum tissue to heal and shrink the periodontal pockets. A local anesthetic may be used while performing the procedure to eliminate any discomfort.

Medications

Medication may be prescribed to control infection, reduce pain, and heal the gum tissue. After the scaling and root planing process, it may involve placing a pill directly in the periodontal gum pocket.

Periodontal Surgery

When the gum pockets do not heal even after scaling and root planing procedures, we recommend periodontal surgery to remove the diseased tissues and reduce the damage to the bone structure around the teeth. When the pockets grow in size, they provide more space for bacteria to thrive and attack the bone and tissue.
During periodontal surgery, the challenging areas under the gum and the tooth roots are reached to eliminate the tartar and plaque deposits. Removing these bacterial accumulations and regenerating bone and tissue will help reduce gum pockets and repair damage caused due to the advanced disease.

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Proudly serve the great people of our community
Get to know you and your family on a personal level
Let you know what to expect during treatment
Go above and beyond to make you feel relaxed and safe

Insurance & Billing

Our friendly team will help you complete insurance paperwork in advance for a better, faster, experience. We are in network with the following insurance providers: 

Why Choose Our Practice

Comprehensive Services for All Ages

At Wedgewood Dental, we understand that dental needs vary at different stages of life. With services ranging from routine cleanings and preventive care to advanced procedures like dental implants and orthodontics, Wedgewood Dental ensures that your entire family receives personalized, top-quality dental care in a warm and welcoming environment.

Cutting-Edge Tech & Modern Comfort

Wedgewood Dental is committed to offering the latest in dental technology to enhance patient care and comfort. Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment such as CEREC for same-day crowns, digital X-rays, and intraoral cameras, Dr. Westmoreland ensures precise and efficient treatments with minimal discomfort.

Community Commitment

Beyond the office, the team at Wedgewood Dental actively supports local initiatives and contributes to the well-being of the Rolla and Salem communities. This commitment to both outstanding dental care and community involvement makes Wedgewood Dental a trusted choice for your family's oral health.

Our Satisfied Patients

We love hearing from our patients! Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to provide us with feedback. It means the world to us!

I loved my experience with Wedgewood Dental. I felt that my needs and thoughts were taken into consideration when making a plan for treatment. The staff were courteous and kind.
Lori S.Review on Google
Can’t say enough good things about this practice. Dr. Westmoreland is patient and gives an honest evaluation. She has always been willing to work within my budget to get the best results for me.
Janet F.Review on Google
I have been scared of dentists for probably most of my life. My experiences with Dr Linda and her staff made my past fears disappear totally and I am so grateful for their professionalism and kindness.
Susan A.Review on Google
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