Periodontal care focuses on the health of your gums and the supporting structures around your teeth. At Dental Care Independence, Dr. Applegate and Dr. Lee provide comprehensive periodontal evaluations, treatments, and maintenance to help protect your smile and overall wellness in Independence, MO.
Whether you're showing early signs of gum disease or are managing an advanced condition, our friendly and knowledgeable team offers individualized solutions backed by the latest clinical practices. With our education-based approach, patients receive the tools and guidance they need to better understand their gum health and treatment options, empowering them to take control of both their oral and systemic health.
Why Would I Need Periodontal Care?
Neglecting gum health can lead to serious consequences, both dental and overall. Gum disease is often painless in its early stages but can quietly progress, potentially leading to tooth loss, bone deterioration, and increased risks for conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Periodontal care targets these issues before they worsen, helping you preserve both your teeth and your health. Dr. Applegate and Dr. Lee emphasize early detection and prevention, using advanced diagnostic tools to identify problems before they become complex and costly to treat. With a personalized plan tailored to your lifestyle, you can maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
DID YOU KNOW?
Half of American adults over 30 have some form of periodontal disease.
The Benefits Of Periodontal Care
Preserves Natural Teeth
By addressing gum inflammation and bone loss early on, periodontal care helps prevent tooth mobility and loss. Keeping your natural teeth not only saves on replacements but also supports proper chewing and speech.
Improves Whole-Body Health
Treating periodontal disease can reduce the body’s inflammatory burden, lowering your risk for systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Dr. Applegate and Dr. Lee view gum health as a key part of your overall wellness.
Enhances Smile Appearance and Freshens Breath
Healthy gums frame your smile beautifully. Removing plaque, tartar, and infection also eliminates odor-causing bacteria, leaving your breath fresher and your confidence higher.
The Periodontal Care Treatment Process
Comprehensive Evaluation
Every treatment at Dental Care Independence begins with a thorough exam. This includes measuring gum pocket depth, assessing bone levels with digital X-rays, and screening for inflammation or infection. Dr. Lee and Dr. Applegate take time to explain their findings in a clear, compassionate way, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health. Their whole-patient approach ensures your comfort and understanding every step of the way.
Non-Surgical Cleaning and Scaling
For early to moderate gum disease, the team may recommend a deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing. This gently removes plaque and hardened calculus from beneath the gumline, halting disease progression. Thanks to precision tools and a calming environment, most patients find the experience comfortable and effective. The goal is to create a clean surface that allows your gums to heal naturally.
Ongoing Maintenance and Monitoring
Healthy gums require consistent care. After initial treatment, patients typically return for periodontal maintenance every 3-4 months, a customized frequency based on your diagnosis. These visits help manage gum health long-term and prevent gum disease from progressing and worsening. Dr. Applegate and Dr. Lee use each appointment as an opportunity to check progress and adjust care as needed, always prioritizing transparency, comfort, and educational support.
Frequently Asked Questions
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