At Avenue Dental Group in Spokane Valley, our dentists provide comprehensive periodontal care focused on preserving the health of your gums and the bone that supports your teeth. Strong, healthy gums are the foundation of a lasting smile and play a critical role in the success of dental crowns, implants, and other restorative treatments.
Gum disease is common, often painless in its early stages, and highly manageable when diagnosed early. Our approach emphasizes prevention, early detection, and personalized treatment—helping you protect both your oral health and overall well-being.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease develops gradually and progresses through distinct stages:
- Gingivitis. The earliest and most reversible stage, marked by redness, swelling, or bleeding of the gums
- Periodontitis. A more advanced condition where infection causes gum recession and bone loss, potentially leading to loose teeth or tooth loss
Because periodontal disease has been linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, treating it promptly is essential for more than just your smile. Our top periodontal services at Avenue Dental Care in Spokane Valley include:
Periodontal Exams & Evaluations
Routine periodontal evaluations are a vital part of maintaining gum health. During your exam, our doctors carefully assess the condition of your gums and underlying bone support by:
- Measuring gum pocket depths around each tooth
- Checking for inflammation, bleeding, and gum recession
- Reviewing bone levels with digital X-rays when appropriate
- Identifying early signs of infection or disease
These exams allow us to diagnose gum disease early and recommend treatment before more advanced damage occurs.
Periodontal Cleanings (Scaling & Root Planing)
When gum disease is present, a standard cleaning may not be enough. Periodontal cleanings, often called scaling and root planing, target bacteria and tartar buildup beneath the gum line.
This periodontal deep-cleaning treatment:
- Removes harmful bacteria from periodontal pockets
- Smooths root surfaces to help gums heal and reattach
- Reduces inflammation, bleeding, and infection
- Helps slow or stop disease progression
For patient comfort, periodontal cleanings are typically performed with local anesthesia and may be completed over multiple visits depending on severity.
Gingivectomy
A gingivectomy is a periodontal procedure used to remove excess or infected gum tissue. This treatment is often recommended when deep gum pockets prevent effective cleaning and ongoing infection is present. By reshaping and reducing the gum tissue, a gingivectomy improves access for oral hygiene and promotes healthier gum attachment around the teeth.
Cosmetic Gum Contouring
In some cases, gingivectomy techniques can also be used for cosmetic gum contouring. This treatment reshapes the gum line to reduce a “gummy” appearance and create a more balanced, attractive smile. When appropriate, we use advanced methods, including laser technology, to improve precision, comfort, and healing time.
Signs You May Need Periodontal Care
You may benefit from a periodontal evaluation if you notice:
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gum tissue
- Chronic bad breath
- Gum recession or teeth that appear longer
- Loose teeth or changes in how your bite feels
Protect the Foundation of Your Smile
Healthy gums are essential for maintaining strong teeth and long-term oral health. If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, or if it’s been a while since your last periodontal exam, contact Avenue Dental Care in Spokane Valley to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. We’re proud to provide complete family dentistry and advanced periodontal care to help our patients maintain their healthiest smiles!
