Periodontics in Aurora, CO

Periodontal care is the branch of dentistry that focuses on the health of your gums and the bone that supports your teeth. Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, starts when bacteria in plaque and tartar cause inflammation. Without treatment, it can destroy the tissue and bone that hold your teeth in place.

At Alameda Dental in Aurora, CO, we diagnose and treat all stages of gum disease, from early gingivitis to advanced periodontitis. Our approach starts with a thorough evaluation and a clear explanation of what we find. We then work with you to create a treatment plan that matches your oral health needs and personal goals.

Gum disease often develops quietly. Many people do not realize they have it until symptoms appear. Common signs include:

• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
• Receding gums that make teeth look longer
• Loose teeth or a change in the way your bite feels

Certain factors increase your risk. Smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy), certain medications, and a family history of gum disease can make you more susceptible. If you notice any of these warning signs or have risk factors, a periodontal evaluation is a wise next step.

Your first visit includes a comprehensive periodontal exam. Dr. Barnes or a member of our clinical team will:

• Review your medical and dental history, including any symptoms and medications
• Measure the depth of the pockets around each tooth — the space between your gum and tooth — using a small probe. Deeper pockets often indicate disease
• Check for gum recession, bleeding, and mobility of teeth
• Take digital X-rays to see the bone levels around your teeth and look for any hidden tartar or bone loss

After the exam, we explain the findings in plain language. We show you what healthy areas look like and point out any areas of concern. You will leave with a clear understanding of your gum health and what, if anything, needs treatment.

For most patients, the first line of treatment is non-surgical. Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to help the gums reattach. It is often completed in two or more visits, with one quadrant of the mouth treated at a time so we can ensure your comfort.

During scaling and root planing: - We numb the area with a local anesthetic so you stay comfortable. - Using specialized instruments, we carefully remove deposits on the tooth above and below the gumline. - After cleaning, the root surfaces are smoothed to discourage future buildup. - In some cases, we may place a local antibiotic directly into the deeper pockets to help control infection.

Most patients experience only mild tenderness for a few days afterward. We provide specific aftercare instructions and may recommend a short course of over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.

When gum disease has advanced, non-surgical therapy alone may not be enough. If you have deep pockets that persist, significant bone loss, or gum recession, surgical procedures may be recommended. At Alameda Dental, we perform certain surgical treatments and coordinate with trusted periodontal specialists when advanced care is needed.

Possible surgical options include: - Pocket reduction surgery (flap surgery): We gently lift the gum tissue to remove deep tartar and then reposition the gums to reduce pocket depth. - Gum grafting: Tissue from the roof of your mouth or a donor source is used to cover exposed roots and rebuild the gumline. - Bone grafting: If bone has been lost, we may place grafting material to encourage new bone growth and provide a stable foundation for your teeth.

We discuss each procedure in detail, including what to expect, recovery timeline, and alternative options, before any surgery is scheduled. Our goal is always to help you make an informed decision.

After active treatment — whether non-surgical or surgical — ongoing maintenance is crucial. Gum disease is a chronic condition, and without regular care it can return.

We typically recommend periodontal maintenance cleanings every three to four months. These visits are more thorough than a standard cleaning and focus on monitoring pocket depths, removing any new buildup above and below the gumline, and catching early signs of recurrence. You will also receive personalized home care coaching to help you keep your gums healthy between visits.

If you have had surgery, we give you clear post-operative instructions. This may include a soft diet for a few days, special rinses, and guidelines for gentle brushing near the treated area. We are available by phone to answer questions as you heal.

Successfully treating gum disease offers important health benefits. You can expect: - Reduction or elimination of bleeding, swelling, and tenderness in the gums - Fresher breath and a more comfortable mouth - Stabilization of bone levels to help prevent tooth loss - A healthier foundation that can lower systemic inflammation linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions

It is also important to understand the limitations. While treatment can stop the progress of the disease and allow some healing, it often cannot fully reverse bone that has already been lost. The long-term success depends heavily on your commitment to daily home care and regular maintenance visits. Periodontal disease is not cured like a simple infection; it is managed. Our team will be honest about what results you can realistically expect based on your starting point and your follow-through.

The cost of periodontal treatment depends on the severity of your disease, the type of procedures needed, and how many teeth are involved. Non-surgical therapy is generally less costly than surgical treatment. Because every case is different, we provide a detailed, written estimate before you begin any treatment.

We accept most major dental insurance plans, and our team will verify your benefits and explain your coverage before your appointment. We never push unnecessary treatment and encourage you to ask questions about costs at any time.

Your comfort is a priority at every visit. We use local anesthetic to ensure you do not feel pain during scaling and root planing or surgical procedures.

Our office follows strict infection control standards that meet or exceed CDC guidelines. All instruments are sterilized, and we use disposable barriers where appropriate. We want you to feel safe and well cared for from the moment you walk in.

If you have noticed signs of gum disease or simply want a thorough evaluation of your gum health, we invite you to schedule a consultation. During this visit, you will receive a complete periodontal exam and a straightforward discussion of your options.

Call Alameda Dental at (303) 343-7072 or use our online contact form to request an appointment. Our office is conveniently located at 14591 E Alameda Ave, Aurora, CO 80012. We welcome patients from throughout Aurora and the surrounding communities. Take the first step toward healthier gums — we are here to help.