If you’re struggling with bleeding gums, gum recession, or loose teeth, periodontal therapy at Hays Dentistry can help restore your oral health. Dr. William Hays offers individualized care to treat gum disease and prevent further damage. Here, you’ll receive honest guidance and comprehensive treatments to support your long-term oral health.
Restore Gum Health and
Prevent Tooth Loss
Periodontal therapy is a comprehensive treatment approach used to manage and reverse the effects of gum disease (periodontitis). It focuses on removing plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gumline, eliminating infection, and promoting tissue regeneration. Dr. Hays uses advanced techniques, such as scaling and root planing, antimicrobial rinses, and guided tissue therapies to restore gum health. The goal is to stop disease progression, stabilize the teeth, and create a clean, healthy foundation for long-term oral wellness.
Why You Might Need Periodontal Therapy:
- To stop bleeding or swollen gums
- To treat chronic bad breath caused by bacteria
- To address gum recession or exposed tooth roots
- To prevent tooth mobility or loss
- To remove deep plaque and tartar buildup
- To reduce gum pocket depth and inflammation
- To manage early signs of periodontitis
Types of Periodontal Therapy
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is often the first line of treatment for gum disease. This involves removing plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline (scaling) and smoothing the root surfaces (planing) to discourage future buildup and help gums reattach to the teeth. Dr. Hays performs this treatment with exceptional attention to detail to target the source of infection.
Antibiotic or Antimicrobial Therapy
In conjunction with scaling and root planing, Dr. Hays may apply localized antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses to target persistent bacteria within the gum pockets. These medications help eliminate infection and reduce inflammation, creating a healthier environment for gum tissue regeneration. This is particularly effective for patients with early to moderate gum disease.
Periodontal Maintenance
After initial therapy, ongoing periodontal maintenance is essential to prevent relapse and preserve gum health. This involves more frequent professional cleanings, typically every 3 to 4 months, along with careful monitoring of gum pocket depth and inflammation. Dr. Hays takes time during each visit to assess your progress and make adjustments to your care plan.
Gum Surgery and Regenerative Procedures
In advanced cases of periodontitis, gum surgery may be necessary. This could include flap surgery to lift the gums for deep cleaning, or regenerative procedures such as bone grafts or guided tissue regeneration to restore lost support and stability. At Hays Dentistry, surgical options are carefully considered and recommended only when absolutely necessary.
Advantages of Periodontal Therapy:
- Improves gum health and reduces inflammation
- Prevents tooth loss by stabilizing bone and tissue
- Eliminates harmful bacteria beneath the gumline
- Reduces gum pocket depth for easier maintenance
- Enhances overall oral hygiene and freshens breath
- Supports systemic health by lowering oral bacteria
- Promotes gum tissue regeneration and healing
- Helps preserve natural teeth for the long term
Your Complete Periodontal Therapy Experience
at Hays Dentistry
Consultation
Your experience begins with an in-depth consultation with Dr. Hays. He’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and evaluate your symptoms. Using digital X-rays, periodontal charting, and a detailed visual exam, he will assess the condition of your gums, measure pocket depths, and determine the extent of any bone loss. Dr. Hays will then explain your treatment options, ensuring you feel fully informed and are involved in the decision-making process.
Treatment
If periodontal therapy is recommended, Dr. Hays will begin with scaling and root planing. Using specialized instruments and ultrasonic technology, he will carefully remove plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from beneath your gumline. He’ll smooth the root surfaces to help your gums reattach and make it harder for bacteria to accumulate in the future. In some cases, he may apply a local antibiotic into deeper pockets to enhance healing and control infection.
Recovery
After treatment, you may experience minor soreness or gum sensitivity for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and saltwater rinses. Dr. Hays will provide personalized aftercare instructions, including tips on brushing, flossing, and, if necessary, using a medicated rinse. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress. Most patients return to normal activities after their appointment with little to no downtime.
Results
You’ll begin to notice improvements within a few weeks, including reduced bleeding, less swelling, and fresher breath. Over the next few months, your gums will continue to heal and tighten around your teeth, and any gum pockets may shrink significantly. With proper home care and ongoing maintenance visits, the results of your periodontal therapy can last for years.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Hays
Dr. William Hays is committed to delivering a more thoughtful, personalized approach to dentistry rooted in clinical excellence. At Hays Dentistry, your periodontal therapy is never rushed or standardized. Instead, Dr. Hays takes the time to explain your options, answer your questions, and guide you toward long-term gum health with honesty. If you’re noticing signs of gum disease, schedule your consultation for periodontal therapy in Waxhaw, NC today.
