Why Choose Pristine Smiles for Your Periodontal Health?

Treating gum disease requires a specialized skill set and a deep understanding of the complex structures that support your teeth. The team at Pristine Smiles is uniquely qualified to provide the advanced care you need to combat periodontal disease and restore your oral health.

• Specialized Periodontal Expertise: Our dental professionals have advanced training in periodontics, the dental specialty focused on the gums and bone that support your teeth. We are experts in diagnosing and treating everything from early-stage gingivitis to advanced periodontitis.
• Advanced Diagnostic Technology: We use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including digital X-rays and periodontal probes, to accurately measure pocket depths around your teeth. This allows us to assess the extent of the disease and create a precise, effective treatment plan.
• Personalized, Non-Surgical, and Surgical Treatments: We offer a full spectrum of periodontal therapies. We always begin with the most conservative, non-surgical approaches, such as scaling and root planing. For more advanced cases, we have the surgical expertise to perform procedures that regenerate bone and tissue.
• Focus on the Oral-Systemic Link: We understand that gum disease is linked to serious systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Our treatment is not just about saving your teeth; it's about protecting your overall wellness.

Understanding and Treating Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is a progressive infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. It typically develops in two main stages.

Gingivitis: The Earliest Stage

Gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. Symptoms include red, swollen, and easily bleeding gums. The good news is that gingivitis is completely reversible with a professional cleaning and improved at-home oral hygiene.

Periodontitis: The Advanced Stage

If left untreated, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. At this stage, the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. The body's immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads below the gumline. This battle can cause the breakdown of the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the teeth will eventually become loose and may have to be removed.

Our primary treatment for periodontitis is a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing.

• Scaling: We carefully remove all plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
• Root Planing: We smooth the tooth roots to help your gums reattach to the teeth and prevent bacteria from accumulating in the future.

For more advanced cases, surgical options may be recommended to restore and regenerate damaged tissue and bone.

Our Commitment to Expertise, Authority, and Trust (E-E-A-T)

As a leading Cherry Hill periodontal practice, our authority is built on a foundation of specialized education, clinical experience, and a commitment to evidence-based care. We are dedicated to staying at the forefront of periodontal research and technology to provide our patients with the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

We earn your trust through compassionate care and clear communication. We will thoroughly explain your diagnosis, walk you through all your treatment options, and create a collaborative plan to restore your gum health. At Pristine Smiles, we are your dedicated partners in achieving and maintaining a healthy smile.

Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontics

1. What are the main warning signs of gum disease?

Common signs include gums that are red, puffy, swollen, or tender; gums that bleed when you brush or floss; persistent bad breath; gums that are pulling away from your teeth (making teeth look longer); and loose or shifting teeth.

2. Is gum disease contagious?

The bacteria that cause gum disease can be passed from person to person through saliva. This means that sharing utensils or kissing can transfer the bacteria, so it is important for all members of a household to practice good oral hygiene.

3. Is periodontal treatment painful?

We prioritize your comfort at every stage of treatment. Procedures like scaling and root planing are performed with local anesthesia to ensure you do not feel any pain. Post-procedure discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

4. Can gum disease be cured?

While the damage caused by advanced periodontitis cannot always be fully reversed, the disease can be effectively managed to halt its progression and maintain a healthy mouth. This requires professional treatment followed by a diligent at-home care routine and regular periodontal maintenance appointments.

5. How much does periodontal treatment cost?

The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the disease and the specific procedures required. Scaling and root planing will cost less than more complex surgical interventions. Periodontal treatment is often covered by dental insurance. Our team will help you understand your benefits and provide a clear cost estimate.

Contact Our Cherry Hill Periodontist

Gum disease is a progressive disease that is best treated early. The first line of defense is proper oral hygiene, followed by regularly scheduled cleanings and periodontal evaluations. If you are experiencing red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush your teeth, don’t wait to schedule an appointment. Our team offers Cherry Hill periodontal disease treatment for every stage of gum disease. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation. We want to see you smile your healthiest smile.