Periodontal care focuses on the health of your gums and supporting bone to prevent, treat, and manage gum disease. At Sonshine Family Dental, Dr. Steven Driggers and Dr. Samuel Driggers use evidence-based techniques and gentle, thorough care to control inflammation, stop infection, and protect your natural teeth. Whether you have early gingivitis or advanced periodontitis, our goal is to restore comfort and keep your smile healthy for life.
What Is Periodontal Care?
Periodontal care includes preventive therapies and treatments for the tissues that support your teeth. During your visit, we assess your gums, measure periodontal pockets, and review digital images to detect disease early. Our office offers non-surgical therapies such as scaling and root planing, localized antimicrobial therapy, and personalized maintenance plans that help you stabilize gum health and prevent relapse.
When You Might Need Periodontal Care
You may need periodontal treatment if you notice bleeding when brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, tooth sensitivity along the gumline, or teeth that feel loose. During your exam, Dr. Steven Driggers or Dr. Samuel Driggers will evaluate pocket depths, plaque and tartar buildup, and bone levels to identify disease before it progresses. Early care means less invasive treatment and better long-term outcomes.
The Periodontal Treatment Process
At Sonshine Family Dental, comfort is our priority. After numbing the area, your clinician carefully removes plaque and calculus from above and below the gumline (scaling) and smooths root surfaces to reduce bacterial re-attachment (root planing). We may place localized antibiotics in deeper pockets and provide home-care coaching tailored to your needs. A follow-up evaluation in 4–6 weeks measures healing and guides next steps. Most patients transition to periodontal maintenance every 3–4 months to keep gums stable. If pockets remain deep or bone defects are present, we will discuss advanced options and coordinate care as needed.
Benefits of Periodontal Therapy
Professional periodontal care reduces bleeding and inflammation, tightens gum attachment, improves breath, and helps prevent tooth loss. By lowering bacterial load, therapy supports better overall health and can reduce the risk of disease progression. With consistent maintenance and effective home care, treated sites remain healthier and more comfortable for everyday eating and smiling.
Caring for Your Gums at Home
Keep gums healthy with daily brushing, interdental cleaning (floss or interdental brushes), and—when recommended—an oral irrigator. Use a soft toothbrush, non-abrasive paste, and focus on the gumline. Avoid smoking or vaping, manage dry mouth, and maintain regular cleanings and exams. If gums feel tender, bleed, or recede, contact Sonshine Family Dental promptly for guidance.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have signs of gum disease or were told you need deep cleaning, call Sonshine Family Dental at 317-271-1330 to schedule a visit with Dr. Steven Driggers or Dr. Samuel Driggers. We proudly serve patients in Avon, Indiana, providing comprehensive periodontal care that protects your teeth, gums, and overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need periodontal treatment?
Common signs include bleeding when brushing or flossing, swollen or tender gums, bad breath, recession, or loose teeth. Regular exams at Sonshine Family Dental allow Dr. Steven Driggers and Dr. Samuel Driggers to detect disease even when symptoms are subtle.
What is scaling and root planing?
It’s a focused, non-surgical cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces. This reduces inflammation and helps gums re-attach, lowering pocket depths.
Will my gums grow back after recession?
Inflammation can improve and pockets can shrink with therapy, but significant recession may not fully reverse. We’ll discuss options—from sensitivity management and occlusal adjustments to soft-tissue grafting when appropriate.
How often will I need periodontal maintenance?
Most patients benefit from maintenance every 3–4 months after initial therapy. The interval is customized based on pocket depths, bleeding, home care, and medical factors to keep disease controlled.
Is gum disease linked to overall health?
Yes. Periodontal inflammation has recognized associations with diabetes control, cardiovascular health, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Managing gum disease supports oral comfort and systemic wellness.