At Broadway Heights Dental, we believe healthy gums are the foundation of a strong, lasting smile and an important part of your overall health. Periodontal (gum) disease is a common condition that often starts quietly – but if left untreated, it can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Research has also shown links between gum disease and systemic health concerns such as heart disease and diabetes.
Our periodontal treatments in Spokane Valley, WA, are designed to gently and effectively stop gum disease in its tracks. Using advanced diagnostics and a personalized approach, we focus on early detection, infection control, and long-term gum health, helping your teeth stay supported, stable, and healthy for years to come.
Treating Gum Disease Early and Effectively
Gum disease typically begins as gingivitis, which may cause redness, tenderness, or bleeding during brushing. When left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis, where deeper pockets form around the teeth and begin to damage the supporting bone. Our goal is to identify these issues early and provide the right level of care to restore gum health and prevent further damage.
Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)
When routine preventive cleanings are no longer enough, a deep periodontal cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, may be recommended. This specialized treatment targets plaque and hardened tartar that have collected below the gumline, where harmful bacteria thrive. While scaling removes plaque and tartar from the tooth roots and deep periodontal pockets, root planing smooths the root surfaces, making it harder for bacteria to reattach.
By eliminating the source of infection, this process allows the gums to heal and reattach more firmly to the teeth, reducing pocket depth and helping prevent future bone and tooth loss. For patient comfort, the procedure is performed gently and may be completed in stages depending on your needs.
Arestin® Local Antibiotic Therapy
To further support healing after a deep cleaning, we may use Arestin®, a localized antibiotic therapy designed specifically for gum disease. Arestin comes in the form of tiny microspheres that are placed directly into infected gum pockets after scaling and root planing.
Once applied, the medication dissolves slowly, releasing antibiotics over time to kill lingering bacteria deep below the gumline. This targeted approach works directly at the source of infection, without affecting the rest of your body, and continues to protect your gums for up to 30 days, improving healing and attachment.
Take Control of Your Gum Health
Healthy gums are essential for maintaining a confident, functional smile at any age. At Broadway Heights Dental, our team provides periodontal care in a judgment-free, supportive environment, focusing on practical solutions and long-term success.
If you’ve noticed any of the following symptoms, it may be time to schedule your next periodontal appointment:
- Bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum tenderness or swelling
- Receding gumlines
Prioritize Your Healthy Smile
Need periodontal treatment in Spokane Valley? Contact Broadway Heights Dental today to schedule your next visit. Together, we’ll protect your smile, starting with its foundation.
