Top Dentist Serving St. Peters
Periodontal Intervention in St. Peters, MO
Protecting the Foundation of Your Smile
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy mouth. When gum disease develops, it can quietly damage the tissues and bone that support your teeth – often without causing pain until it’s advanced. At Scanlon Family Dental, we take a proactive, compassionate approach to gum health through customized periodontal intervention. Our St. Peters team focuses on early detection, effective treatment, and long-term prevention to keep your smile strong for life.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It begins when bacteria in plaque accumulate along and below the gumline, leading to inflammation. Without timely treatment, it can progress from mild irritation to serious damage involving the bone that supports your teeth.
There are two primary stages of periodontal disease:
- Gingivitis – The earliest and most reversible stage, marked by red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
- Periodontitis – A more advanced stage that causes gum recession, bone loss, and, in severe cases, tooth loss if untreated.
Even though periodontal disease is common, it’s highly preventable with consistent home care and regular dental visits.
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The Importance of Early Intervention
Periodontal disease can progress quietly, often without discomfort until significant damage has occurred. That’s why early detection and intervention are essential. During your routine cleanings and exams, we check for warning signs such as:
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Receding gums or “longer-looking” teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
If we identify early signs of gum disease, we’ll recommend personalized treatment to stop its progression and restore your gum health.
Our Approach to Periodontal Care
At Scanlon Family Dental, we believe in education, prevention, and gentle, effective treatment. We start with a thorough evaluation, including:
- Digital X-rays to assess bone health
- Periodontal charting to measure pocket depths around each tooth
- Visual examination of the gums, tissues, and existing restorations
Once we understand your specific needs, we’ll develop a treatment plan tailored to the severity of your condition.
Treatment Options for Gum Disease
Standard Cleanings for Healthy Gums
For patients without signs of periodontal disease, regular cleanings every six months help remove plaque and tartar, keeping gums healthy and preventing inflammation from developing in the first place.
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleanings)
For patients with early to moderate periodontitis, we often recommend scaling and root planing, also called a deep cleaning.
- Scaling removes hardened plaque and bacteria from below the gumline.
- Root planing smooths the root surfaces to help gums reattach and heal properly.
This non-surgical procedure is usually done under local anesthesia for comfort and may be completed in one or more visits, depending on your needs. Deep cleanings can significantly reduce inflammation and halt further progression of gum disease.
Ongoing Periodontal Maintenance
Once gum disease is stabilized, routine maintenance is crucial. Most patients benefit from periodontal cleanings every 3–4 months to control bacteria and maintain healthy gum attachment. These visits are more frequent than standard cleanings and include close monitoring to ensure long-term success.
Referral to a Specialist (When Needed)
In advanced cases that require gum surgery or bone regeneration, we’ll refer you to a trusted periodontist for specialized care. We coordinate closely with these specialists to ensure a seamless experience and the best possible outcome for your oral health.
The Connection Between Gum Health and Overall Health
Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth – it has been linked to several systemic health conditions, including:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Respiratory issues
- Adverse pregnancy outcomes
By managing periodontal disease, you’re also protecting your overall health. Our preventive approach supports both your oral and systemic well-being, helping you stay healthy from the inside out.
Comfort-Focused Treatment
We understand that gum treatments can make some patients anxious, but your comfort is always our priority. We use local anesthetic to keep procedures pain-free and offer nitrous oxide sedation for patients who feel nervous or prefer extra relaxation during their visit. Nitrous oxide is a safe, mild sedative that wears off quickly, allowing you to return to normal activities immediately after treatment.
Our gentle, patient-centered care ensures you feel calm and informed every step of the way.
Preventing Periodontal Disease at Home
Daily care plays a major role in preventing gum disease and keeping treatment results stable. We recommend:
- Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes
- Flossing or using interdental cleaners daily
- Using an antimicrobial mouth rinse if recommended by your dentist
- Avoiding tobacco products, which increase gum disease risk
- Scheduling regular cleanings and exams every six months (or more frequently if prescribed)
Our hygienists will also demonstrate personalized brushing and flossing techniques to make home care easier and more effective.
Long-Term Benefits of Periodontal Intervention
With proper care and ongoing maintenance, periodontal intervention can:
- Stop gum disease progression
- Prevent tooth loss
- Improve breath and gum appearance
- Support overall health and immune function
- Enhance the success of restorative treatments like crowns, bridges, and implant crowns
Healthy gums not only support a beautiful smile but also contribute to better overall wellness.
Why Patients Trust Scanlon Family Dental
Since 1962, Scanlon Family Dental has been known for honest, conservative, and family-focused dentistry. Our team combines decades of experience with modern technology to provide effective, comfortable periodontal care that prioritizes your long-term health. Whether you need preventive cleanings, deep scaling, or maintenance care, we’re here to protect your smile’s foundation with compassion and precision.
Schedule a Periodontal Evaluation in St. Peters, MO
If your gums bleed, feel tender, or haven’t been checked in a while, don’t wait – early action can make all the difference. Call (636) 441-1020 or request an appointment online to schedule your periodontal evaluation at Scanlon Family Dental in St. Peters, MO.
We proudly serve patients throughout St. Charles County, including Cottleville, O’Fallon, and the surrounding communities, helping families achieve and maintain healthy smiles for life.