Periodontics in Wilmington

After gum disease has been diagnosed and treated, ongoing periodontal maintenance appointments help prevent reinfection. These visits are scheduled more frequently than standard cleanings and focus on monitoring pocket depths, removing bacteria from deep areas around the gums, and maintaining stable oral health. Consistent maintenance is crucial for long-term control of moderate to severe gum disease.

Accurate diagnosis is essential for successful gum disease treatment. Digital x-rays allow our team to assess bone levels, detect hidden areas of infection, and monitor how gum disease may be affecting the structures supporting your teeth. Combined with a comprehensive periodontal exam, these diagnostic tools help us create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your level of disease.

For targeted areas of persistent infection, localized antibiotic therapy can be applied directly into gum pockets to kill bacteria at the source. Antibacterial gels and medicated microspheres gradually release treatment over time, encouraging healing and reducing pocket depths. This therapy is often used alongside deep cleanings for enhanced results.

Gum disease can lead to gum recession, sensitivity, and exposed tooth roots. Our team evaluates the cause and severity of recession to determine the best treatment options. Early intervention helps protect vulnerable areas, improve comfort, and prevent further tissue loss.

If your office offers laser therapy—if not, I can remove this.
Laser-assisted gum therapy targets infected tissue with precision, minimizing discomfort and promoting faster healing. It reduces bacteria, preserves healthy tissue, and encourages gum reattachment. Patients often experience less bleeding and swelling compared to traditional methods.

Chronic bad breath is one of the earliest signs of gum disease. We provide targeted halitosis treatment by removing plaque buildup, treating infected gum pockets, and addressing bacteria that contribute to odor. With proper treatment, most patients notice significant improvement in breath freshness and oral comfort.

Common symptoms include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum tenderness, gum recession, tooth sensitivity, and loose or shifting teeth. Even mild symptoms should be evaluated promptly, as gum disease can progress silently. Our Wilmington team can diagnose the severity of your condition and recommend appropriate treatment.

During your periodontal evaluation, we assess gum health by measuring pocket depths around the teeth, checking for inflammation, evaluating gum recession, and reviewing digital x-rays for bone loss. These diagnostic tools help us determine whether you have gingivitis or periodontitis and guide your personalized treatment plan.

Treatment depends on the stage of the disease. Options may include deep cleanings (scaling and root planing), antibacterial therapy, periodontal maintenance visits, and soft tissue care for gum recession. Our team may also recommend lifestyle and hygiene improvements to support long-term healing.

A deep cleaning is a nonsurgical periodontal treatment designed to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline. The roots are then smoothed to help the gums reattach. This reduces inflammation, improves gum health, and helps prevent the progression of gum disease. Many patients notice improved comfort and less bleeding shortly after treatment.

No. Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can be reversed with professional cleanings and improved home care. However, once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, it requires ongoing professional treatment to manage. Without intervention, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and other complications.

Most patients with gum disease require periodontal maintenance every 3–4 months. These visits help control bacteria, prevent reinfection, and monitor gum and bone health. They are more in-depth than standard cleanings and are essential for long-term management of periodontal disease.

Yes. Research shows that untreated gum disease is linked to heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy complications, respiratory issues, and other inflammatory conditions. Treating gum disease not only protects your smile—it also supports your overall health and well-being.

Prevention includes consistent brushing and flossing, regular dental checkups, periodontal maintenance visits, staying hydrated, avoiding tobacco, and managing health conditions like diabetes. Our team will give you personalized recommendations to help you maintain healthy gums long-term.