About
Gum Therapy
Gum Therapy & Periodontal Maintenance: Protecting Your Gums for Long-Term Oral Health
Gum disease is one of the most common - yet often silent - threats to oral health. Let untreated, it can cause gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss. At Forest Family Dentistry, we provide gum therapy (scaling and root planing) and periodontal maintenance in Austin and Round Rock to treat gum disease and help you maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.
What Is Gum Therapy?
Gum therapy, also called scaling and root planing, is a deep-clean procedure that removes hardened plaque (tartar) and bacteria from below the gum line - areas that regular brushing and flossing cannot reach.
Why It's Important:
When plaque and tartar are left beneath the gums, they can cause inflammation and infection that may lead to:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Gum recession and tooth sensitivity
- Bone loss around teeth
- Loose teeth or eventual tooth loss
Treating gum disease early with scaling and root planing in Austin or Round Rock can protect your gums, teeth, and overall health.
How Gum Therapy Works:
For your comfort, the treatment area is gently numbed. Then, our hygienist carefully:
- 1. Cleans below the gum line with advanced dental tools
- 2. Removes bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup
- 3. Smooths the tooth roots to encourage gum reattachment
Most patients complete gum therapy over two appointments, treating one side of the mouth at a time.
What to Expect After Gum Therapy
After gum therapy, ongoing care is essential. That's where periodontal maintenance comes in.
Periodontal Maintenance: Ongoing Gum Disease Care
Unlike a standard dental cleaning every 6 months, periodontal maintenance is typically recommended every 3-4 months for patients with gum disease.
These specialized visits help:
- Remove new tartar buildup above and below the gums
- Monito gum and bone health
- Reduce harmful bacteria and inflammation
- Prevent further progression of periodontitis
With consistent treatment, gum tissue can heal, and bone loss may be slowed or prevented. If your gums remain healthy over time, you may eventually transition back to routine cleanings.
Signs You May Need Gum Therapy
If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, it could be time to seek gum disease treatment:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession or loose teeth
- Sensitivity along the gum line
- Visible tartar buildup near or under the gums
Expert Gum Disease Treatment in Austin & Round Rock
At Forest Family Dentistry, our experienced dentists and hygienists use gentle, non-surgical techniques to provide effective gum therapy and scaling and root planing. Whether you're in the early stages of gingivitis or managing periodontitis, our team offers personalized care to restore and protect your gum health.
Schedule Your Gum Therapy Consultation Today
If you've been told you need a deep cleaning or you're worried about your gum health, don't wait. Forest Family Dentistry proudly provides gum therapy and periodontal maintenance in Austin and Round Rock, TX to help you prevent tooth loss and keep your smile healthy.
Contact us today to book a consultation and take the first step toward healthier gums and a stronger smile.