Gum Disease Modesto, CA

Gums Swollen and Bleeding?

Dr. Clarke Filippi, Modesto Periodontist, Discusses Scaling and Root Planing

Early Stage gum disease is curable

Swollen, painful gums are one of the earliest signs of gum disease. While unpleasant, it is also a good warning sign that your gums need treatment. Pay attention to it. If you do not treat your gums at an early stage, your gum disease can reach an untreatable stage known as periodontitis. At that point, you are potentially facing tooth loss and bone recession. But the complications do not end there. According to extensive research, the bacteria behind gum disease can also lead to systemic problems as serious as heart disease and strokes. Find trusted treatment for gum disease in Modesto, CA here.

At Central Valley Periodontics & Implants we are dedicated to treating your gum disease before it gets out of control and causes you serious problems. As a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Clarke Filippi specializes in diagnosing and treating all diseases of the soft tissues. With years of advanced training beyond dental school and continuing education in the newest techniques and technologies, he can help you get a handle on your gum disease before it is too late. Reach out to us at the first signs of gum disease.

Gum Disease warning signs

Persistent bad breath
Bleeding gums
Gum tenderness or inflammation
Loose teeth
Gum recession
Bone loss
Tooth sensitivity

Dr. Clarke Filippi, Modesto Periodontist, Discusses Gum Disease

Two proven treatment paths

Early Stage Gum Disease Treatment

Scaling and root planing are the typical treatment for early stage gum disease. Scaling is a process in which Dr. Filippi will thoroughly remove any signs of infection and tartar from below your gums. He follows this with root planing, where he disinfects and smooths out your tooth roots. Bacteria can sometimes hide and grow in even the smallest tooth crevices. When the roots are smooth, this is less likely to happen. Once scaling and root planing are completed, the teeth and gums can more easily reattach to one another. In many cases, Dr. Filippi will recommend ongoing periodontal maintenance as a follow-up treatment no matter the stage of your gum disease. During these recurring visits—usually every three to four months—he will do further deep cleaning, including scaling and root planing, to keep bacteria from accumulating and causing reinfection.

Advanced Gum Disease Treatment

If your gum disease reaches an advanced state, Dr. Filippi may suggest osseous surgery (flap surgery). This is a more complex treatment for which Dr. Filippi may administer sedation to keep you comfortable throughout. During the procedure, he retracts the infected gum tissue to reach your tooth roots and bone underneath. There he removes any accumulated bacteria (tartar) as well as any diseased soft tissue. If he discovers any jawbone deterioration, he might be able to rebuild the bone through bone grafting. This will not cure your gum disease, but when done along with a regular dental hygiene routine, can keep gum disease manageable.

Our Patients tell the story best

Gum Recession and Sensitivity

Janet

Tissue Grafting Repaired Gum Recession and Relieved Sensitivity

Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs!

Take care of gum disease without delay.