Advanced Gum Disease: Treatment Options for Periodontitis

Hearing the word “periodontitis” can be intimidating, but you’re not alone, and the good news is, there are effective solutions. At Modern Dentistry in Valparaiso, Dr. Brad Wisowaty and our team approach every case of advanced gum disease with a personalized, non-judgmental mindset. Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last cleaning, there’s never any shame in getting back on track with your dental health. We’re simply glad you’re here.

What Is Periodontitis and How Does It Develop?

Periodontitis, or advanced gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. It typically stems from untreated gingivitis, the milder stage of gum disease. 

Once bacteria begin to accumulate beneath the gumline, it triggers a response from your immune system that can result in the breakdown of gum and bone tissue. If you’re noticing any of these signs, it may be time to talk about treatment:

• Bleeding or swollen gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Gum recession that causes teeth to appear longer
• Loose teeth or shifting of your bite

It’s important to act early, but even in advanced cases of periodontitis, there are effective, science-backed treatments that can help restore gum health and preserve your natural teeth.

Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatments

When caught in its moderate stages, periodontitis can often be managed with non-surgical therapies aimed at eliminating bacterial buildup and promoting healing. At Modern Dentistry, Dr. Brad and our team tailor each treatment to your specific needs, always making your comfort and long-term results our top priorities. A few common non-surgical treatment options include:

• Scaling and Root Planing: This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar beneath the gums while smoothing the root surfaces to slow bacterial reattachment.
• Antibiotic Therapy: Localized antibiotics may taken by mouth or applied directly to infected pockets to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
• Ongoing Maintenance Cleanings: More frequent cleanings every 3-4 months help prevent reinfection and closely monitor healing progress.

These treatments are often very effective when paired with a solid at-home care routine. I’ll go over all of that with you so you feel confident about your next steps.

Surgical Treatment Options When Necessary

In more advanced cases where deep pockets or bone loss are present, surgical therapy may be the best option for preserving your oral health. Don’t let the word “surgery” worry you. We are here to walk you through it every step of the way and make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. A few surgical treatments we may recommend include:

• Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery): By carefully lifting the gum tissue, we can access deeper areas of infection and clean the roots more thoroughly before resecuring the gum tissue.
• Bone Grafting: If bone loss has occurred, grafting helps stimulate natural bone regrowth and provides better support for your teeth.
• Tissue Grafting: For receding gums, grafting techniques can restore lost tissue while protecting exposed roots and improving appearance.

These procedures are performed right here in our Valparaiso office with a familiar, gentle team you already know and trust.

Preventing Gum Disease from Progressing

One of the most important aspects of managing gum disease is preventing further progression. That’s something our team works on closely with you. At each visit, we focus on educating without overwhelming, because Dr. Brad believes that informed patients make empowered decisions. The steps we encourage to maintain gum health long-term include:

• Daily brushing and flossing with proper technique
• Regular dental checkups and periodontal maintenance cleanings
• Quitting smoking and all types of tobacco/nicotine use, all of which significantly increases gum disease risk
• Addressing systemic health issues like diabetes, which can impact gum health

What sets our practice apart is that you won’t feel like just another patient. We build relationships that will grow and last for years to come. Continuity of care from our small, dedicated team helps ensure your needs are always remembered and respected.

Get Compassionate Periodontal Care in Valparaiso

If you’re living with advanced gum disease, there’s no need to feel embarrassed or unsure about where to begin. Just give us a call. At Modern Dentistry, you’ll be met with understanding, solutions, and a genuine smile. 

Whether you have questions or need urgent treatment, we’re here for you. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Brad today by calling (219) 464-9681, and let’s take the next step together to restore your gum health in Valparaiso.