Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, swollen gums, or sensitive teeth can be signs of gum disease. If you are searching for gum disease therapy in Memphis, understanding the symptoms and available treatment options can help you know when it is time to see a dental professional.
Dental ERx provides dental care in the Memphis area from its location inside St. Francis Bartlett Hospital’s Medical Arts Pavilion. The practice offers periodontal services including gum disease treatment, scaling and root planing, and periodontal pocket reduction.
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What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection and inflammation affecting the gums and the tissues supporting your teeth.
The condition generally begins with plaque buildup around the gumline. If plaque is not removed effectively, it can harden into tartar and contribute to inflammation.
Gum disease can range from early gingivitis to more advanced periodontitis.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. Common signs include:
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
With appropriate professional care and improved oral hygiene, gingivitis can often be reversed.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease. It can affect the tissues and bone supporting the teeth and may lead to gum recession, periodontal pockets, loose teeth, and tooth loss if left untreated.
Signs You May Need Gum Disease Therapy in Memphis
You may benefit from a dental evaluation if you notice:
- Bleeding gums
- Swollen or red gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession
- Sensitive teeth
- Pain when chewing
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes around the gumline
- Pus or drainage around the gums
Not every symptom means you have periodontal disease. A dental examination is needed to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
What Does Gum Disease Therapy Include?
The right treatment depends on the severity of the gum disease and the condition of the gums and supporting tissues.
Professional Dental Cleaning
For early gum inflammation, a professional cleaning combined with good daily oral hygiene may help restore healthier gums.
If you are also looking for information about cleaning appointments, you can read our guide on same-day teeth cleaning.
Scaling and Root Planing
When gum disease has progressed beyond early gingivitis, a deeper cleaning may be recommended.
Scaling and root planing, sometimes called a deep cleaning, removes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces, including areas below the gumline. Root planing smooths the affected root surfaces to support improved gum health.
Dental ERx lists scaling and root planing as part of its periodontal services. You can see the full range of dental services offered by Dental ERx.
Periodontal Pocket Treatment
As gum disease progresses, spaces called periodontal pockets can form between the gums and teeth.
These pockets can make it easier for bacteria and plaque to accumulate. Depending on the severity, periodontal treatment may be used to manage these areas and protect the supporting tissues.
Periodontal Maintenance
Gum disease treatment does not necessarily end after the initial procedure. Patients with a history of periodontal disease may need ongoing periodontal maintenance and regular dental examinations.
Following your dentist’s recommended maintenance schedule can help monitor your gums and identify changes early.
Can Gum Disease Be Cured?
It depends on the stage.
Early gingivitis can often be reversed with professional care and consistent oral hygiene.
Periodontitis is different. Once supporting bone has been lost, it cannot simply be restored through routine brushing and flossing. However, professional treatment can help manage the condition and reduce the risk of further progression.
That is why early evaluation is important.
Can You Treat Gum Disease at Home?
Good home care is an important part of gum health, but it should not replace professional treatment when tartar or periodontal disease is present.
A healthy daily routine includes:
- Brush twice a day.
- Clean between your teeth every day.
- Follow your dentist’s recommendations.
- Maintain regular dental examinations.
- Avoid tobacco products.
- Follow recommended periodontal maintenance appointments.
If you have swelling, significant dental pain, or another urgent concern, you can learn more about walk-in dental care at Dental ERx.
When Should You See a Dentist?
You should consider scheduling a dental examination if your gums repeatedly bleed, appear swollen, or pull away from your teeth.
You should also seek professional care if you experience:
- Loose teeth
- Significant gum swelling
- Persistent bad breath
- Pain when chewing
- Pus around the gums
- Increasing tooth sensitivity
- Facial or jaw swelling
For urgent dental concerns, Dental ERx offers in-person care in Bartlett and 24/7 teledental consultations. Learn more about Dental ERx telehealth services.
How Much Does Gum Disease Therapy Cost in Memphis?
The cost depends on the type of treatment required, the number of areas being treated, insurance coverage, and the severity of the condition.
Dental ERx publishes its current self-pay pricing online. For example, the listed price for scaling and root planing is $200 per quadrant, while periodontal maintenance is listed at $150. Prices can change, and an examination may be required before treatment.
You can review the latest Dental ERx pricing before your visit.
Why Choose Dental ERx for Gum Disease Care?
Dental ERx provides dental care from St. Francis Bartlett Hospital’s Medical Arts Pavilion in Bartlett, Tennessee, serving patients in the Memphis area.
The practice offers periodontal services as part of its broader dental care, including gum disease treatment, scaling and root planing, and periodontal pocket reduction. It also provides emergency dental care and 24/7 telehealth services.
If you have questions before your visit, you can review the Dental ERx FAQs or contact the dental team.
What is gum disease therapy?
Gum disease therapy refers to professional treatment used to manage gum inflammation and periodontal disease. Depending on the condition, treatment may include professional cleaning, scaling and root planing, periodontal maintenance, or other periodontal procedures.
What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
Gingivitis is an early form of gum disease that affects the gums. Periodontitis is more advanced and can affect the tissues and bone supporting the teeth.
Is scaling and root planing painful?
Scaling and root planing is a deeper cleaning than a routine dental cleaning. Your dental professional can discuss comfort options and what to expect based on your individual condition.
Can gum disease cause tooth loss?
Yes. Advanced periodontal disease can damage the tissues and bone supporting the teeth and may eventually contribute to tooth loss.
How often should I receive periodontal maintenance?
The appropriate schedule depends on your periodontal condition and treatment history. Your dental professional can recommend a maintenance schedule based on your individual needs.