Gum Goals: Let's Get Healthy

May 28, 2025

Understanding and Managing Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, commonly called gum disease, is one of the most common yet misunderstood dental conditions. At Spaulding Dental Co., we’re getting back to the basics to help you better understand what it is, what causes it, and how to manage it.

What is Periodontal Disease?

It all starts with plaque and tartar building up around and beneath the gum line , leading to inflammation. Left untreated, it can damage the supporting structures of your teeth, eventually leading to bone and tooth loss. If not treated, this can damage the bone and connective tissue that support your teeth. While oral hygiene habits play a major role, genetics and medical conditions like diabetes can also increase your risk.

Managing Periodontal Disease: What We Offer

Our team focuses on early detection and personalized, non-surgical treatments designed to halt the progression of disease:

• Scaling and Root Planing – Deep cleaning beneath the gums to remove plaque and smooth the root surfaces.
• Surgical Debridement – In more advanced cases, surgical cleaning may be necessary to remove infected tissue.
• Frequent Cleanings – Every 3 to 4 months, or as recommended by your hygienist, to keep bacteria at bay.
• Localized Antibiotic Protocol – Targeted antibacterial treatments help reduce infection and inflammation in specific areas.

At-Home Tools That Make a Difference

Healthy gums start at home with routine care. Dr. Spaulding recommends incorporating these daily habits:

Consistency matters. Along with professional care, daily routines at home are key to success:

• Gentle Brushing – Use a soft-bristled brush and avoid aggressive scrubbing.
• Traditional Flossing – Choose a non-waxed floss like Cocofloss for better plaque removal between teeth.
• Water Flossing – A Waterpik® helps flush bacteria from hard-to-reach spots. Check them out here.
• Routine Checkups – Regular dental visits allow us to monitor your progress and catch issues early.

With strong home care and close coordination with our skilled hygienists, periodontal disease can be managed, and in most cases, stabilized. Let’s keep your smile healthy, together.