At Scottsdale Dental Arts, preventive care is at the heart of what we do. Our goal is to protect your teeth and gums and help you maintain excellent oral health between visits. When gum disease does develop, we offer advanced, effective treatments to get it under control—fast. Dr. McCargar and our experienced team provide top-rated periodontal care right here in Scottsdale. During every checkup, we keep a close eye on your gum health, so we can catch early signs of trouble and act quickly.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It often starts with plaque and bacteria buildup along the gum line and can be caused by poor oral hygiene, genetics, age, or chronic health conditions like diabetes.
If left untreated, gum disease can increase your risk for:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Premature or low birth weight babies
Common Symptoms of Gum Disease
Because early gum disease can be painless, regular dental visits are key. Schedule an appointment with Dr. McCargar if you notice any of the following:
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Swollen, tender, or receding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth or shifting bite
- Pain when chewing
- Sores in the mouth
- Ill-fitting dentures
How We Treat Gum Disease
At Scottsdale Dental Arts, gum disease treatment plans will depend on the progression of the condition. In its early stages (gingivitis), we can often reverse the disease with thorough cleanings and improved at-home care. For more advanced cases of periodontal disease and gum inflammation, we may recommend:
Scaling and Root Planing (Periodontal Deep Cleaning)
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical treatment that involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the tooth roots to help gums reattach and heal. This periodontal deep cleaning treatment is offered to help reduce inflammation and halt the progression of gum disease.
Laser Therapy
An advanced, minimally invasive treatment that uses precise laser energy to target and eliminate harmful bacteria beneath the gums. Laser therapy promotes faster healing, reduces discomfort, and minimizes bleeding compared to traditional surgical methods.
Antibiotic Therapy
Medicated gels or oral antibiotics may be used alongside other treatments to fight infection-causing bacteria in deep gum pockets. Specialized antibiotic therapy helps reduce bacteria levels and inflammation, supporting the healing process.
Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings
After your initial treatment, regular periodontal maintenance cleanings are essential to prevent gum disease from returning. At Scottsdale Dental Arts, these specialized periodontal cleanings are typically scheduled every 3–4 months to keep your gums and supporting structures healthy in the long term.
Schedule Your Periodontal Consultation at Scottsdale Dental Arts Today!
If you’re concerned about your gum health or if it’s been a while since your last dental checkup, give us a call to schedule your periodontal appointment. We’re here to help you keep your smile—and your gums—healthy for life.
