Gum Disease Treatment in West Ashley, Charleston, SC
Gum disease can lead to serious oral health problems, including gum recession, loose teeth, and tooth loss if left untreated. Early stages like gingivitis are reversible with timely care. At Ammons Dental in West Ashley, Charleston, SC, we offer expert gum disease treatment to prevent further damage and restore your oral health.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and the bone supporting your teeth. It begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, is not fully removed through daily brushing and flossing. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and causes inflammation. If left untreated, the infection can damage the ligaments and bone that hold teeth in place, potentially leading to gum recession, tooth mobility, and tooth loss. Since tartar can only be removed through professional cleanings, regular dental checkups are essential for preventing gum disease and maintaining a healthy, lasting smile.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease progresses in two stages:
Gingivitis:
The earliest and fully reversible stage of gum disease is characterized by inflammation of the gums. Symptoms commonly include redness, swelling, tenderness, and bleeding during brushing or flossing. At this stage, plaque buildup is present, but there is typically no bone or connective tissue loss with proper oral hygiene practices.
Periodontitis:
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. The gums and supporting bone begin to separate from the teeth, forming infected pockets. Over time, these pockets deepen, causing further destruction of bone and connective tissue, which can result in loose teeth and eventual tooth loss.
Causes of Gum Disease
Gum disease is typically caused by a combination of factors, including:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Not brushing or flossing properly can lead to plaque buildup, which causes gingivitis and can progress to more severe gum disease.
- Smoking or Chewing Tobacco: These habits contribute to gum disease by decreasing blood flow to the gums and increasing the accumulation of plaque.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and other hormonal changes can make gums more sensitive and prone to gum disease.
- Certain Medications: Some medications can affect gum health, making them more vulnerable to infection.
- Genetics: Some people may be more susceptible to gum disease due to their genetic makeup.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, HIV, and other autoimmune diseases can increase the risk of developing gum disease.
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s time to schedule an evaluation:
- Gums that are red, swollen, or tender
- Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Gums that are receding or pulling away from teeth (making teeth look longer)
- Loose or separating teeth
- Pus between your gums and teeth
- A change in your bite or the fit of partial dentures
Our Advanced Gum Disease Treatment
At Ammons Dental by Design, we customize our treatment plans based on the severity of your gum disease, beginning with the most conservative options to preserve your natural gums and teeth.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): As the gold standard for non-surgical gum disease treatment, this procedure involves thoroughly removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline (scaling) and smoothing the tooth roots (planing) to help promote healing and gum reattachment.
Surgical Treatments (For Advanced Cases)
Periodontal Surgery:
For advanced gum disease with deep pockets, our periodontal surgery allows us to access, clean, and reduce the depth of infected pockets, helping to remove bacteria and create an environment that’s easier to maintain with daily oral care.
Laser Gum Therapy:
Using state-of-the-art dental lasers, we can precisely target and remove infected gum tissue. This method often causes less discomfort and promotes faster healing compared to traditional surgery, enhancing your recovery process.
Gum Grafts: To address gum recession, we perform soft tissue grafting, which involves grafting tissue to cover exposed tooth roots. This procedure not only protects sensitive roots but also prevents further recession, bone loss, and improves the aesthetic appearance of your smile.
A LOVED West Ashley, Charleston, SC DENTIST
The staff are super friendly and extremely knowledgeable. I actually look forward to my appointments no matter what I have going on dental wise because I know I’m in the best care in the Low Country. If you are looking for a new place and/or not happy with where you have been going; I highly recommend Ammons Dental by Design 
A very good experience in a very stressful situation. Dr Ammons is very personable and skilled. He made me feel comfortable and accomplished an implant at my visit.
It was an emergency for me and the first time I had used his services. I will use Ammons for all my dental care in the future
Dr Ammons and his staff have truly changed my life. For years I hated to take photos or I hid in the back to hide my smile. Since this journey has started I now love taking photos and make memories. It’s amazing the growth and confidence they have provided me. Highly professional and personable. They actually listen and ask about any concerns. Top quality. Forever grateful!
Cost of Gum Disease Treatment in West Ashley, Charleston, SC
Treatment | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Scaling and Root Planing | $200 – $1,000 per quadrant |
Periodontal Surgery | $1,500 – $5,000 |
Laser Gum Therapy | $500 – $3,000 |
Gum Grafts | $600 – $3,000 per graft |
Note: Cost may vary based on your specific needs, location, and insurance coverage. Schedule a consultation to receive a personalized estimate and explore available payment options.
Financing Options at Ammons Dental by Design West Ashley
Our office is in-network with all major insurance providers. Please bring your insurance card to each appointment so we can make sure your information is as up-to-date as possible. If you do not find your insurance provider here; we work with all major insurance provides, please call at (843)-305-8403 for clarity.
Tips to Prevent Gum Disease for Healthy Gums
Maintaining healthy gums is essential for your overall oral health. Here are the effective tips to prevent gum disease and keep your smile bright and healthy.
- Brush Regularly and Properly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush along the gumline and use gentle, circular motions to avoid damaging your gums.
- Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline, areas that your toothbrush can’t reach. Make it a habit to floss every day.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule regular checkups and professional cleanings every 6 months. Your dentist can detect early signs of gum disease and remove tartar buildup, which can't be removed by brushing alone.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, can help keep your gums healthy. Limit sugary foods and drinks, as they contribute to plaque buildup.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking weakens your immune system and makes it harder for your gums to heal. Quitting smoking reduces your risk of developing gum disease and improves overall oral health.
Our Expert in Gum Disease: Dr. Inesha Baker
Dr. Baker discovered her calling for dentistry even before her high school graduation. Driven by a passion for creating beautiful smiles and a deep appreciation for the artistry of dental care, she combines technical skill with genuine compassion. This understanding nature is especially comforting for patients with dental anxieties, helping them feel at ease.
Baker’s educational journey began at Winthrop University in 2008, culminating with a dental residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in 2019. She is fiercely dedicated to her patients and her craft, specializing in the early detection and personalized treatment of gum disease. By providing effective, comfortable therapy and crafting plans to restore and maintain gum health, she empowers her patients with both education and results. To ensure the very best for the West Ashley community, she remains at the forefront of dental technology through continuous education.
Why Choose Ammon’s Dental for Your Gum Treatment in West Ashley, Charleston, SC?
- Expertise You Can Trust: Our dentists are highly trained and experienced in diagnosing, treating, and effectively managing periodontal disease with advanced professional care.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Every smile is unique, so we design personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific dental needs and overall health goals.
- Advanced Technology: From advanced digital X-rays ensuring precise diagnosis to modern treatment options, we prioritize your comfort, safety, and high-quality dental care.
- A Comfort-Focused Environment: We recognize dental anxiety and are committed to providing a calm, gentle, and reassuring experience that helps patients feel relaxed, comfortable, and confident throughout their care.
- A Holistic Health View: We care for you as a whole person, recognizing the vital connection between oral health and overall well-being to support lasting health and wellness.
Book Your Gum Disease Treatment in West Ashley, Charleston, SC?
Don’t let silent gum disease sabotage your smile and overall wellness. Think of your gums as the essential foundation for every laugh, conversation, and confident moment. Protect that foundation with a personalized gum evaluation at Ammon’s Dental in West Ashley, Charleston, SC. Catching issues early is the smartest, most powerful defense you have. Schedule Your Consultation today. Call us at: (843) 305-8403 or visit us at: 1014 St Andrews Blvd, Suite 210 B-1, Charleston, SC 29407
FAQs
Gingivitis (early stage) is completely reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care. Advanced periodontitis can be successfully managed and controlled, but requires ongoing professional maintenance.
We use local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during procedures. Most patients report minimal discomfort, often comparing it to a routine dental cleaning.
A standard scaling and root planing(deep cleaning) is typically completed in one or two visits. More complex cases may require additional appointments. We will provide a clear timeline.
Most dental insurance plans include coverage for periodontal therapy. Our experienced team helps you understand your benefits clearly and takes care of all insurance paperwork on your behalf.
Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss thoroughly once a day, use an antiseptic mouthwash if recommended, and avoid tobacco. Most importantly, keep up with your regular dental cleanings and exams.