Periodontal Treatments

Our hygienists and doctor may recommend periodontal treatments. This involves root planing and scaling to remove the bacteria that builds up between the teeth and below the gum line causing gum disease. Untreated gum disease can lead to bone and tooth loss, as well as, other health related issues.

Some estimates conclude half of all U.S. adults struggle with some form of gum disease in their lifetime, whether it’s the common form known as gingivitis or the most advanced form known as periodontitis. No matter which you struggle with, the dental team at Jennifer Chalker, DDS are ready and able to help. With periodontal treatments, we can help you treat or manage your symptoms while improving the overall health of your entire smile.

At Jennifer Chalker DDS, we are dedicated to restoring your gum health with our periodontal treatment options. For patients who live in and around Harrisonburg and the Rockingham County area, we check your gums as part of your routine checkup. If we spot any problems, we may recommend periodontal treatment.

What is Gum Disease

The gums, ligaments, and bone around the teeth form the foundation for your teeth. This foudnation is also sometimes called the periodontium. When the periodontium is not healthy, it jeopardizes the teeth just as a bad foundation would threaten the stability of a house.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Often, the earliest symptoms are painless or mild. That’s why frequent checkups are so essential. With regular care, our Rockingham County team can help you diagnose gum disease before your symptoms have time to become more advanced.

The effects of gum disease don’t stop with just your oral health. This common problem has also been linked with a range of other health problems, including stroke, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and even pre-term birth in pregnant women. Preventing and treating gum disease will help you preserve your smile and your overall health.

Frequent symptoms of gum disease include:
Gums that bleed when you brush
    Red or sore gums
    Frequent bad breath (halitosis)
    A receding gum line
    Loose teeth

We highly recommend regular general dentistry visits every six months to a year to help us prevent and detect gum disease. Prevention is the best medicine, however, if we do discover gum disease, early treatment will give better results and most likely prevent the need for surgical periodontal therapy.