Culp Dental Periodontal Treatment provides Oral Health to Rock Hill community

Periodontal Treatment

Our dentists and hygienists work hard to help patients prevent developing periodontal disease through routine hygiene visits and patient education. If you do show signs of this disease, we can develop a plan to help you overcome it.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Gingivitis is a dental term used to describe inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding. It is usually caused by plaque and can be reversed through plaque removal and excellent oral hygiene. If ignored, gingivitis can eventually lead to periodontitis, or periodontal disease. Periodontitis destroys the gums and structures surrounding the teeth, which can lead to tooth loss.

What Are the Risk Factors?

Risk factors for developing gum disease include smoking, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hormonal changes in women, reduced the flow of saliva or dry mouth (xerostomia), and genetic susceptibility.


  • Root surface debridement helps control bacterial infection. Bacteria are flushed out of the gum’s pocket space, pocket wall and underlying tissues in an effort to stop the disease from progressing and reestablish gum and overall oral health.

  • Scaling and root planing involves scraping deposits from the tooth roots and then smoothing or polishing the surface to make it less susceptible to bacterial colony formation. This procedure is performed in the early stages of the disease, affecting all or some teeth depending on severity.
  • Following scaling and root planing procedures, the patient will be asked to return to the office for the gums and teeth to be re-evaluated.  This appointment gives our dentist and hygienists an opportunity to confirm an improvement in the health of the patient’s gum tissue.
  • Some patients require surgical therapy to effectively minimize the effects of periodontal disease.  Our dentist may choose to refer any patients with moderate or severe periodontal disease to a periodontist for further evaluation or possible surgical treatment.

Is Gum Disease Preventable?

Keeping your teeth and gums healthy can help prevent gum disease. Brush your teeth twice each day with a fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly to remove plaque from between teeth, avoid smoking and visit us for regular checkups.

are your gums healthy?