Protecting the Health of Your Bone and Gums

We offer a wide variety of periodontal surgical procedures such as gum grafts to fix areas of recession and/or defects, bone grafting, scaling and root planing, and periodontal maintenance. With each procedure varying greatly from patient to patient, it is difficult to cover each section on a website. If you have any concerns about the health of your bone or gums, we would be more than happy to evaluate your particular needs at our office and give you a customized treatment plan to accommodate your goals and give you a healthy smile.

Stages of Gingivitis (gum disease) and Periodontitis (bone disease)

Gingivitis (Gum Disease- Stage 1)

Gingivitis is the first stage of Periodontal disease. Plaque, a sticky substance filled with bacteria, settles along the gum line of the teeth and causes the gums to swell, become red in appearance and bleed. Gingivitis is reversible and can be resolved with the combination of a professional dental cleaning and meticulous home care. Key signs of gingivitis are gums that are red and bleed easily when touched or brushed.​

Periodontitis (Bone Disease - Stages 2 & 3)

If the plaque is not removed, bacteria will settle around the roots of the teeth and start to destroy the supporting bone (Pictured in Stage 2). The bone loss is not reversible. The gums will become infected and pull away from the teeth, forming pockets. As the pockets become deeper and the infection progresses, more bacteria will accumulate and further bone loss will occur. The gums will shrink away and the teeth will start to become loose and may shift. Many people suffer from bad breath at this stage.

When periodontal disease has reached its advanced stage, painful abscesses can form in the gum. There is very little bone support left and the teeth are loose. In most cases, teeth that have reached this stage require extraction. Periodontal disease is an infection of the bone and gum tissues that support your teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know you have it. At each regular checkup, the dentist will measure the depth of the shallow v-shaped crevice (called a sulcus) between your tooth and gums to assess your gum health and determine if you have periodontal disease.

Treatment: Deep Cleanings (Scaling and Root Planing)

The initial phase in the treatment of periodontal disease is scaling and root planing, commonly referred to as a “deep cleaning.” The objective is removal of the bacteria that has accumulated beneath the gums on the root surfaces. Deep cleanings cannot restore the lost bone and tissue but can prevent the disease process from advancing and help to prevent tooth loss.

Scaling involves removal of the bacteria and other debris from the crown and root surfaces of the teeth. Root planing involves smoothing the root surfaces of the teeth, in areas where they have become rough due to tartar. Depending on the severity of the disease process, some individuals require local anesthetic (numbing) for the scaling and root planing appointment. Once the teeth have been thoroughly cleaned, the disease process is slowed; however, proper home care is a vital component of successful treatment. Sometimes the periodontal disease has progressed to a point where surgical measures are required to adequately remove all debris and contour the damaged bone and tissues. At your initial cleaning appointment, we will assess your gum and bone health, and determine a treatment plan that is custom to your needs.

Patient Testimonials

WHAT OTHER PATIENTS, LIKE YOU, HAVE TO SAY

I’ve been to quite a few dentists in the past, but am so glad I have found a permanent place. The office staff, assistants, hygienists, and doctors are all so nice and friendly. They make you feel cared about. Definitely recommend.
Lina LaBarbara
1695336163
As a visitor from Chicag I was happily pleased that they readily accepted my problem of a loose crown! I’ve been there 3 times and was pleasantly greeted and taken care of! A greatStaff of people!
Thomas Itrich
1695255287
Simply the Best. I have been to many dentists and had terrible experiences so I don't trust. I have found with Ackley you can trust what they say. They have always been right. Of course with my non trust issue.,I didn't always listen, have found that they have been right. Excellent on every thing, Been going there for many years A+++++
Lea Rhodes
1695230019
Always treats us good
Don Costa
1695161669
Been going here for 15 years now and I have never felt uncomfortable or fearful since my 1st visit. The staff is always warm, welcoming and, friendly. They took care of me right on time and got me out ASAP to get to work. I highly recommend Ackley Dental to all my friends family and strangers that are looking for a quality Dentist that treats their patients like family.
Steven Marsh
1695074771
Everyone was very helpful, friendly and knowledgeable.
Sandy Cook
1695074554
Zero pain. Amazing Dr.
Joe Iarussi
1695005773
Great experience! Nicki was so kind, honest, and informative! Definitely plan to return for my future dental work.
Amy Fritsch
1694964993
Excellent friendly care! Appointment started on time.
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1694786919
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1-352-678-5270

1530 Pinehurst Dr.
Spring Hill, FL 34606
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