Healthier Gums, Healthier You — Advanced Periodontal Care That Works
Gum disease is a common oral health condition, and many people may not realize they have it until noticeable symptoms or damage have already developed.
At Schaefer Advanced Dentistry, Dr. Schaefer and Dr. Malone take gum health seriously. We use comfortable, modern technologies — including Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) and the Perioflow® system — to detect and treat gum disease before it leads to tooth loss, chronic inflammation, or other oral health concerns.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a progressive infection caused by bacteria and plaque buildup beneath the gumline. Left untreated, it can result in:
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth or tooth loss
- Damage to the bone supporting the teeth
Gum health is also an important part of your overall well-being. Certain health conditions, including diabetes, may affect the gums and make periodontal disease more difficult to manage.
The good news is that gum disease is highly treatable, especially when caught early.
Causes of Gum Disease
Several factors can contribute to the development of gum disease, including:
- Poor brushing or flossing habits
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Crooked teeth or misaligned bites
- Hormonal changes, including pregnancy or menopause
- Chronic conditions such as diabetes
- Genetics
- Certain medications or dry mouth
Signs You May Have Gum Disease
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to schedule a gum evaluation:
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Gums pulling away from the teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in your bite
Early intervention is important. Gum disease caught in the gingivitis stage may be reversible with professional care and improved oral hygiene. More advanced cases can often be successfully managed with the right treatment and ongoing maintenance.
How We Treat Gum Disease at Schaefer Advanced Dentistry
Dr. Schaefer and Dr. Malone offer non-surgical, minimally invasive treatments that target bacteria at the source while keeping you comfortable and relaxed.
Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) + Perioflow®
We’re proud to offer EMS Guided Biofilm Therapy with the Perioflow® system, a gentle method for cleaning periodontal pockets and removing disease-causing biofilm. This combination of air, water, and specialized powders helps clean around the teeth and gums without damaging healthy tissue.
GBT and Perioflow® may be especially helpful for patients with deeper periodontal pockets, dental implants, or ongoing gum health concerns.
Lifestyle & At-Home Oral Care Coaching
We’ll help you improve your brushing and flossing habits and may recommend specialized products such as antimicrobial rinses, soft-bristle toothbrushes, interdental cleaners, or prescription toothpaste to help control bacteria between visits.
Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
This in-office treatment cleans below the gumline to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar. The root surfaces are then smoothed to encourage healing and help the gums fit more closely around the teeth.
Depending on your needs, we may combine scaling and root planing with laser therapy or Guided Biofilm Therapy for additional support.
Laser Gum Therapy
Our advanced soft-tissue laser allows us to gently disinfect treatment areas and remove inflamed gum tissue with precision. Laser therapy may help reduce bleeding and promote comfortable healing.
Antibiotic Therapy
For certain cases, Dr. Schaefer and Dr. Malone may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics to target lingering bacteria and support healing after periodontal treatment.
Ongoing Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal treatment does not end once the initial infection is under control. Regular maintenance visits are important for preventing bacteria and tartar from building up again beneath the gumline.
Depending on your gum health, we may recommend maintenance appointments more frequently than standard six-month cleanings. Our team will create a schedule based on your individual needs.
You can also learn more about our preventive dentistry services and general dental care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Disease
Does gum disease always cause pain?
No. Gum disease can progress without causing noticeable discomfort, which is why regular dental exams and cleanings are so important.
Can bleeding gums be normal?
Occasional irritation can happen, but gums that bleed regularly while brushing or flossing may be a sign of inflammation or gum disease and should be evaluated.
How often will I need periodontal maintenance?
Many patients with a history of gum disease benefit from maintenance visits every three to four months, although your recommended schedule will depend on your individual condition.
Comfortable, Compassionate Care Every Step of the Way
We use a conservative approach and offer local anesthesia or sedation options when appropriate to help every patient feel relaxed and confident during periodontal treatment.
Don’t wait until symptoms get worse — healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile.
Call Schaefer Advanced Dentistry in Louisville, KY, today to schedule your gum health evaluation with Dr. Schaefer and Dr. Malone.
