Gum disease affects nearly half of all adults over 30 in the United States, with the prevalence increasing to over 70% for adults 65 and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If you’re experiencing swollen, bleeding, or receding gums, you may be dealing with periodontal disease. At Club K Dental, we provide comprehensive periodontal care services to help Springfield residents maintain healthy gums and prevent tooth loss.
We understand that gum disease can be concerning and often develops silently. Our team of experienced dentists combines advanced technology with personalized treatment plans to address periodontal issues at any stage. From preventive care to treating advanced periodontitis, we offer solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It begins with bacterial growth in your mouth, primarily caused by plaque buildup. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by professional cleaning.
The early stage of periodontal disease is called gingivitis. During this stage, your gums may become red, swollen, and bleed easily when brushing or flossing. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with proper dental care and improved oral hygiene habits.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth and form pockets. These spaces collect debris and can become infected. As the disease advances, the pockets deepen, and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may need to be removed.
Research from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research shows that periodontal disease is not just a dental problem—it’s connected to various systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions.
Many people have periodontal disease and don’t know it because the condition is often painless in its early stages. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for early detection and treatment.
Some common warning signs of periodontal disease include:
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible. Early intervention is key to preventing more serious damage to your gums and teeth.
Poor oral hygiene is the primary cause of periodontal disease, but other factors can increase your risk, including smoking, hormonal changes, certain medications, genetic susceptibility, and systemic diseases like diabetes. Understanding your risk factors can help us develop a more effective prevention and treatment plan.
The treatment for periodontal disease depends on how far the condition has progressed. Our approach focuses on controlling the infection, preventing further damage, and restoring healthy gums.
For early-stage periodontal disease, non-surgical treatments may be sufficient:
For advanced periodontal disease, surgical interventions may be necessary:
Following any periodontal treatment, maintaining good oral hygiene at home and attending regular maintenance appointments are essential for long-term success. According to a study by the American Academy of Periodontology, patients who adhere to supportive periodontal therapy have a significantly higher rate of tooth retention compared to those who receive irregular maintenance care.
Prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to gum disease. Here are some effective strategies to keep your gums healthy:
Preventive care is particularly important if you have risk factors for periodontal disease. Our hygienists can provide personalized recommendations for your home care routine based on your specific needs and risk factors.
Technology plays a significant role in modern periodontal care. At Club K Dental, we use digital imaging to detect early signs of bone loss, ultrasonic scalers for more comfortable and effective cleaning, and microscopic evaluation to identify harmful bacteria. These advanced tools allow us to provide more precise and effective treatment.
At Club K Dental, we believe that healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Our patient-centered approach means we take the time to understand your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. Whether you’re experiencing early signs of gum disease or require more advanced periodontal care, you can trust our expertise to help you achieve and maintain healthy gums. To schedule your periodontal evaluation, visit our contact form.
At Club K Dental, we offer a distinctive dental experience that you won’t find anywhere else. We are a Mercury-Free, Mercury-Safe, Biologic office committed to holistic dental care. Our practice focuses on finding and preventing the root cause of disease or damage rather than simply treating symptoms. We offer specialized services including Allergy Elimination through NAET, Ozone Therapy, and SAFE Amalgam removal. We work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive, holistic care that addresses your overall wellness, not just your dental health.
Your first visit with us will be approximately 90 minutes, during which we conduct a thorough assessment of your dental and overall health. We’ll take a Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) or 3D radiograph to examine your airway, bone structure and density, teeth, sinuses, and other anatomical landmarks in your upper and lower jaws. We also perform a Vitamin D test and a Saliva pH test to gauge your overall health status. You’ll receive a dental cleaning using ozonated water and meet with Dr. Knapton to discuss your health goals and treatment options. This comprehensive approach enables us to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Technique (NAET) is a non-invasive, drug-free method for treating allergies. This holistic approach helps identify and eliminate allergic reactions through a combination of techniques derived from traditional Chinese medicine, kinesiology, and chiropractic principles. Dr. Knapton is certified in NAET and has personal experience with its effectiveness. He sought NAET treatment for his own hands that were cracking and bleeding, with remarkable results after conventional treatments failed. He has also successfully treated his children for allergies using NAET, resolving his son’s sandpaper skin and his daughter’s persistent leg rash.
Our SAFE Amalgam Removal process adheres to strict protocols to safeguard you from mercury exposure during the removal of old mercury fillings. As members of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), we adhere to scientific safety measures throughout the procedure. This includes using specialized equipment to minimize mercury vapor, providing oxygen during the procedure, using a rubber dam to isolate the tooth, and employing high-volume suction to capture particles and vapor. We follow these protocols to reduce your exposure to potentially harmful substances while replacing your amalgam fillings with biocompatible alternatives. After removal, we may recommend detoxification support to help your body eliminate any mercury that may have accumulated in your system over time.
