Gum Therapy

Restore Your Gum Health with Gum Therapy at Espire Dental Norman

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. If you’ve been experiencing bleeding, swelling, or discomfort in your gums, you may need gum therapy to restore your oral health. At Espire Dental Norman, Dr. Jim Spurgeon and Dr. Brett Leemaster offer expert gum care, from routine cleanings to advanced periodontal therapy. Whether you’re dealing with early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) or more advanced periodontitis, we’re here to provide the treatment you need to regain your gum health and prevent further damage.

The Importance of Gum Care at Espire Dental Norman

Healthy gums are essential to your overall dental health. When left untreated, gum disease can lead to:

  • Tooth loss: Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, as it weakens the support structures that hold your teeth in place.
  • Bone loss: In advanced stages, gum disease can erode the bone that supports your teeth, leading to a sunken appearance in the face.
  • Systemic health issues: Research has shown links between gum disease and serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. By maintaining your gum health, you’re also protecting your overall well-being.

At Espire Dental Norman, our goal is to help you prevent and manage gum disease through regular cleanings, early intervention, and personalized care.

Types of Gum Treatments at Espire Dental | Norman

At Espire Dental Norman, we offer a range of treatments to address gum disease and maintain your oral health. Depending on the severity of your condition, Dr. Jim or Dr. Brett will recommend the right course of therapy for you.

  • Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): If your gum disease is more advanced than a routine cleaning can handle, scaling and root planing may be necessary. This non-surgical deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, where bacteria can cause damage. After scaling, the tooth roots are smoothed (planed) to help the gums reattach to the teeth and reduce future plaque buildup.
  • Gum Recession Treatment: When gum disease progresses, it can cause the gums to recede, exposing more of the tooth and increasing the risk of decay, sensitivity, and tooth loss. Dr. Jim Spurgeon or Dr. Brett Leemaster can offer treatments such as gum grafting to restore your gumline and protect the exposed tooth roots.
  • Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, antibiotic therapy may be used alongside deep cleanings to target the bacteria causing gum disease. This treatment involves applying topical antibiotics directly to the gum pockets to reduce infection and promote healing.
  • Periodontal Maintenance: After completing gum therapy, ongoing care is essential to keep gum disease from returning. Periodontal maintenance includes regular deep cleanings and close monitoring of your gum health to catch any signs of disease early. Dr. Jim and Dr. Brett will work with you to create a customized maintenance plan that helps prevent future issues.
  • Laser Gum Therapy: For patients with more advanced gum disease, laser gum therapy may be an option. This minimally invasive treatment uses laser technology to remove infected tissue and bacteria while promoting faster healing with less discomfort.

What causes gum disease?

Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. When plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, irritating the gums and leading to infection.

Is gum disease reversible?

In its early stages (gingivitis), gum disease is reversible with professional cleanings and improved at-home oral care. However, once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, it can only be managed, not reversed. Dr. Jim or Dr. Brett will recommend the best treatment plan to stop the progression and restore your gum health.

How can I prevent gum disease?

The best way to prevent gum disease is through good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting Espire Dental Norman for regular checkups and cleanings. Maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding tobacco products also play a significant role in gum health.

Is gum therapy painful?

Gum therapy is typically painless, as we use local anesthesia and other comfort measures to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Dr. Brett Leemaster also offers sedation options for patients who may feel anxious about the treatment.

Can gum disease affect my overall health?

Yes. Gum disease has been linked to several serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By treating gum disease, you’re not only protecting your teeth and gums but also safeguarding your overall health.

How often do I need periodontal maintenance?

If you’ve had gum disease, you’ll need to come in for periodontal maintenance cleanings more frequently than the typical twice-a-year visits. Most patients need maintenance cleanings every three to four months to keep their gums healthy and prevent a recurrence of the disease.

Protect Your Smile with Gum Therapy at Espire Dental Norman – Book Today!

If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or simply want to maintain healthy gums, Espire Dental Norman is here to help. With the combined expertise of Dr. Jim Spurgeon and Dr. Brett Leemaster, we offer comprehensive gum therapy to restore your oral health and prevent future issues. Call us today at (405) 364-7385 to schedule your consultation or visit our office near Sooner Mall for personalized care.

"Espire dental will never steer you wrong! They are very thorough and have great bedside manner! You feel like a long time friend..."

Cassie Wiese