Periodontal disease, or gum disease, damages the soft tissue in your mouth. Without proper treatment, it can even affect the bone that supports your teeth and eventually lead to your teeth becoming loose and falling out. There are various treatments available to make your mouth healthy again, however, and these are classified into either surgical or non-surgical treatments. In the case of suspected gum disease, an immediate checkup is very important and at Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona we can help you address and treat it promptly.FAQs
How much does it cost to get rid of gum disease?
The investment for gum disease treatment in Phoenix varies widely depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment required. Early-stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, can often be managed with a professional cleaning and improved home care habits, which is a relatively modest investment.More advanced periodontal disease may require deeper interventions such as scaling and root planing, which involves cleaning below the gum line to remove bacteria and tartar from the root surfaces. In the most advanced cases, surgical treatments such as flap surgery, gum grafting, or bone regeneration procedures may be necessary to restore the health of the gums and supporting bone.
At Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona, we provide a comprehensive periodontal evaluation and develop a treatment plan with clear estimates so there are no surprises. We also assist patients in understanding their insurance benefits and available payment options.
What is the most effective treatment for gum disease?
The most effective treatment depends entirely on how far the disease has progressed. For gingivitis, the earliest and most reversible stage, a thorough professional cleaning combined with consistent brushing, flossing, and antimicrobial rinses is often all that is needed. For moderate to advanced periodontitis, scaling and root planing is considered the gold standard non-surgical treatment.This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from beneath the gum line and smooths the tooth root surfaces so the gums can reattach more tightly. If the disease has caused significant tissue or bone damage, surgical options such as pocket reduction surgery, guided tissue regeneration, or gum and bone grafting may be recommended. Laser-assisted periodontal therapy is another option that can reduce bacteria and promote healing with less discomfort and shorter recovery times.
As a periodontal specialty practice, Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona offers the full range of gum disease treatments and will recommend the approach that provides the best long-term results for your specific condition.
When is it too late to reverse gum disease?
Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, is fully reversible with professional treatment and improved oral hygiene habits. Once the disease progresses to periodontitis, however, the damage to the bone and connective tissue supporting the teeth cannot be completely reversed. That said, it is never too late to treat gum disease and prevent it from getting worse.Even in advanced cases, effective periodontal treatment can halt the progression of the disease, reduce inflammation, eliminate infection, and in many cases regenerate some of the lost bone and tissue through surgical procedures. The key is seeking professional care as soon as possible. The longer periodontitis goes untreated, the more bone and tissue are lost, which can eventually lead to tooth loss.
At Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona, our periodontists specialize in managing all stages of gum disease, including complex cases, and we work with patients to develop a long-term maintenance plan that protects their oral health going forward.
Will insurance cover periodontal disease treatment?
Most dental insurance plans provide some level of coverage for periodontal disease treatment, though the specifics vary significantly from plan to plan. Diagnostic procedures like periodontal evaluations and X-rays are commonly covered, as are non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing.Coverage for surgical procedures, including flap surgery, bone grafts, and gum grafts, may be subject to higher copays, annual maximums, or pre-authorization requirements. Some plans classify periodontal maintenance cleanings differently than routine preventive cleanings, which can affect coverage frequency and out-of-pocket costs.
Medical insurance may also come into play in certain situations, particularly when gum disease is connected to systemic health conditions such as diabetes. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to review your specific benefits.
Our team at Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona is experienced in working with insurance companies and can help you navigate your coverage, submit pre-authorizations, and maximize your benefits.