Expert Gum Disease Treatment

in Lakewood


Comprehensive Periodontal Care Solutions

Gum disease affects millions of Americans and remains the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. At our Lakewood dental practice, we take a proactive approach to periodontal (gum) care, offering treatments that range from gentle preventive therapy to advanced procedures for more severe cases. Our comprehensive gum disease treatments address both the symptoms and underlying causes of periodontal issues, helping to restore gum health and protect your teeth. Understanding that gum disease is linked to serious systemic health conditions like heart disease and diabetes, we view periodontal treatment as an essential component of your overall wellness plan—not just your oral health care. With early intervention and proper maintenance, we can help you maintain healthy gums and preserve your natural teeth for years to come.

Advanced Diagnosis and Treatment Technologies

Our approach to treating gum disease begins with thorough assessment and precise diagnosis. Using advanced imaging and periodontal charting, we measure pocket depths around each tooth and evaluate bone levels to determine the extent of disease progression. For early-stage gingivitis, we typically recommend enhanced cleaning techniques and improved home care routines. For more advanced periodontitis, we offer scaling and root planing—a deep cleaning procedure that removes bacteria and calculus from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces to promote healing. In cases where traditional treatments aren't sufficient, we may incorporate laser therapy, which precisely targets diseased tissue while preserving healthy gum structure. This minimally invasive approach promotes faster healing with less discomfort than conventional methods.

Personalized Maintenance and Prevention Programs

What truly distinguishes our gum disease treatment is our commitment to long-term success through customized maintenance plans. We recognize that each Lakewood patient's periodontal condition is unique, requiring individualized approaches for optimal results. After initial treatment, we'll work with you to establish an appropriate recall schedule—typically every 3-4 months rather than the standard 6-month hygiene visits. These more frequent professional cleanings help manage bacterial levels while we monitor your gum health for any signs of recurrence. We provide detailed home care instructions and may recommend specialized tools like water flossers, interdental brushes, or prescription antimicrobial rinses based on your specific needs. For patients with systemic health concerns, we coordinate with your medical providers to ensure comprehensive care. This ongoing partnership approach helps prevent disease progression and supports lasting 

Periodontal Treatments In Lakewood, CO

Here’s what’s included in your gum disease treatment appointment.

When it comes to treating periodontal disease, the longer you wait, the worse it gets. In mild cases of gingivitis, practicing good oral hygiene and regularly visiting the dentist can quickly reverse the progression of the disease. Your dentist may suggest additional products or prescribe a stronger antimicrobial mouthwash to help treat gingivitis, but if the disease advances, more extensive periodontal options may be necessary, such as:

Scaling and Root Planing

A dentist or dental hygienist “scrapes” your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and root surfaces. Depending on the severity of the buildup, you might require several visits.

Pocket Reduction Procedure

This treatment is required when your gums are not fitting as close to your teeth as possible, causing what is called “deep pockets.” A pocket reduction procedure folds the gum tissue to remove infection and bacteria, and then reattaches the tissue to healthy bone.

Gum Grafts

Gum grafts cover up exposed roots caused by periodontal disease. Skin is removed from your upper palate and then grafted to your gums to provide coverage. This reduces sensitivity while protecting your roots from decay. It also helps stop further issues such as bone loss.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a less-invasive procedure that requires less recovery time and can address a number of issues caused by periodontal disease.

Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Here are ways to tell if you have gum disease.

Gum disease is caused by the buildup of bacteria in the mouth. When the bacteria doesn’t get brushed away, it forms plaque, which eventually turns into tartar, which then infects the gums around your teeth. Some common symptoms of periodontal disease include:

  • Bad breath
  • A bad taste in your mouth that won’t go away
  • Red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums
  • Pain when chewing
  • Loose teeth
  • Teeth sensitivity
  • Gums pulling away from your teeth
  • A feeling that your teeth don’t feel right when you bite
  • If you have dentures, a feeling that they no longer fit properly

As soon as you notice any changes to your gums, especially bleeding, you should speak to us about periodontal treatments in Lakewood, Colorado.

Restore Your Gum Health

Don't ignore the signs of gum disease—bleeding, swollen gums, persistent bad breath, or receding gumlines. Contact our Lakewood dental office today to schedule a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. Early intervention is key to successful treatment, and our gentle, effective approach can help you achieve healthier gums and improved overall wellness.


We're Not Just Tooth Doctors

We’re here for your whole health, not just the health of your teeth.

At Balanced Dental Studio in Lakewood, Colorado, we take a holistic approach to dentistry and focus on the overall health of our patients. As functional dentists, we don't just treat dental issues at face value. We investigate the root cause of the problem to provide long-lasting solutions.

Good oral hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, as well as regular dental cleanings, are essential. However, they don't always address the underlying cause of dental issues such as tooth decay, misaligned teeth, bad breath, and others. These problems can stem from airway obstructions, overcrowded mouths, and narrow dental arches resulting from mouth breathing and sleep-disordered breathing.

Our focus on functional dentistry allows us to address the source of the problem and prevent future dental problems, while improving the quality of your life. Our aim is to help you and your loved ones smile with confidence, breathe easier, and lead a healthier life. We cater to patients of all ages and provide comprehensive dental care, from preventative cleanings to advanced procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the early warning signs of gum disease?

Early signs of gum disease include bleeding when brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, red or swollen gums, tender gums, receding gumlines, and loose teeth. Many Lakewood patients are surprised to learn they have gum disease because early stages can be painless. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for catching gum disease in its initial stages when it's most treatable and before permanent damage occurs.

Is gum disease treatment painful?

Most gum disease treatments cause minimal discomfort. For scaling and root planing procedures, we use local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. Our Lakewood practice also offers sedation options for anxious patients or more extensive treatments. Many patients report that the discomfort after treatment is similar to a deep cleaning—some mild sensitivity for a day or two. Advanced technologies like laser therapy often result in less discomfort and faster healing than traditional methods.

How long does gum disease treatment take?

The timeframe for gum disease treatment depends on the severity of your condition. Early-stage gingivitis may resolve with a single professional cleaning and improved home care. For moderate periodontitis, scaling and root planing typically requires 1-2 appointments, often dividing the mouth into quadrants. More advanced cases may need several appointments over a few months. Most Lakewood patients see significant improvement within 2-3 weeks after completing initial therapy, though full healing takes longer.

Can gum disease grow back after treatment?

Gum disease can recur without proper maintenance, which is why ongoing care is essential. After completing initial treatment, we'll establish a personalized maintenance schedule—typically every 3-4 months—to monitor your condition and prevent bacterial recolonization. Many Lakewood patients maintain stable gum health for years with this approach. However, factors like smoking, poor oral hygiene, genetic predisposition, and certain medical conditions can increase the risk of recurrence.

Is there a connection between gum disease and overall health?

Yes, substantial research demonstrates links between periodontal disease and numerous systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, certain cancers, and pregnancy complications. The inflammation and bacteria associated with gum disease can enter your bloodstream, potentially affecting other body systems. By treating gum disease, our Lakewood dental team may help reduce overall inflammation and potentially lower your risk for related health complications.

What can I do at home to prevent gum disease?

Effective home care is crucial for preventing gum disease. Brush thoroughly twice daily with a soft-bristled brush using proper technique. Clean between teeth daily with floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers. Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria. Maintain a healthy diet low in sugars and refined carbohydrates. Avoid tobacco products, which significantly increase gum disease risk. Most importantly, keep regular appointments with our Lakewood dental team for professional cleanings and early detection.

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Are you ready to smile more, breathe freely, and live better?

We are, too! Give us a call or complete the form to schedule an appointment! We'd love to sit down and discuss how you can achieve better oral health and a beautiful, healthy smile!

Please call 303.989.3192 or use the form to request to schedule an appointment. The Balanced Dental Studio Team will then call you to confirm a date and time.