Healthy Gums Start with Gum Disease Treatment in Farmington Hills
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, affects millions of adults each year. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, infections, and even impact your overall health. Our Farmington Hills dentist, Dr. Roman Shlafer, and his skilled team provide advanced gum disease treatment to restore your oral health and keep your smile strong. We proudly serve Farmington Hills and the surrounding areas, including Novi, West Bloomfield, Southfield, and Livonia, offering compassionate care and the latest treatment options.
Whether you are experiencing gum inflammation, bleeding while brushing, or persistent bad breath, our team is here to help. Our approach combines traditional and advanced therapies, ensuring the best results for each patient. If you’re noticing signs of gum disease, contact the best dentist in Farmington Hills by calling (248) 781-0040.
Why Choose Dr. Roman Shlafer for Gum Disease Treatment Near You
Dr. Shlafer combines skill, compassion, and the latest dental technology to provide outstanding care. As a highly trained Farmington Hills dentist, he focuses on personalized treatment plans, ensuring every patient receives the attention and care they deserve. Our dental office prioritizes comfort, education, and results, making us the best dentist near you for gum disease treatment.
Theresa D., our valued patient, shared her experience:
- “Dr. Shlafer and his staff are wonderful. I could not have had the type of dental work I needed done by another dentist. I’m so grateful for his skills and talent in dentistry. I feel more confident in my dental health. Truly blessed by him and his wonderful team!”
This kind of feedback reflects the personalized care and attention you can expect when choosing Dr. Shlafer as your dentist in Farmington Hills.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. Early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis, is often reversible with proper care. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, causing gum recession, bone loss, and tooth mobility. Early detection is key. Regular visits to your Farmington Hills dentist can prevent complications and maintain a healthy smile.
Stages of Gum Disease
Understanding the stages of gum disease can help you recognize symptoms early and seek treatment before it becomes more serious. Gum disease generally progresses through four stages:
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- Gingivitis – Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. It occurs when plaque builds up along the gum line, causing inflammation. Symptoms may include red, swollen gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing.
- Early Periodontitis – At this stage, the infection begins to affect the bone supporting your teeth. Gums may start to pull away from the teeth, forming small pockets that trap bacteria. Patients may notice persistent bad breath, slight gum recession, or increased bleeding.
- Moderate Periodontitis – In moderate periodontitis, the pockets deepen, and bone loss becomes more noticeable. Teeth may start to feel loose, and gum recession continues. Treatments like deep cleaning and LANAP laser therapy are often recommended to control the infection and preserve oral health.
- Advanced Periodontitis – This is the most severe stage of gum disease. Significant bone and tissue loss can lead to loose or shifting teeth, severe gum recession, and even tooth loss. Advanced treatments, including LANAP and possible surgical intervention, may be necessary.
Recognizing these stages early allows Dr. Shlafer to provide timely treatment, protecting both your gums and your overall oral health.
Signs You May Need Gum Disease Treatment
Knowing when to seek treatment can prevent serious oral health issues. Contact our dental office by calling (248) 781-0040 if you notice:
- Persistent gum bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Receding gums or tooth sensitivity
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Bad breath that does not improve with routine cleaning
Early intervention can save your teeth and improve your long-term oral health.
Gum Disease Treatment Options We Offer
At our Farmington Hills dental office, Dr. Shlafer offers personalized gum disease treatment plans based on the severity of your condition.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure designed to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line. This treatment smooths the roots of your teeth, allowing gums to reattach and heal. Benefits include:
- Reduced gum inflammation and bleeding
- Prevention of further bone loss
- Improved overall oral health
Scaling and root planing is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring patient comfort throughout the procedure. Follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing and maintain long-term results.
LANAP Laser Treatment
For patients looking for a minimally invasive approach, LANAP laser treatment is a modern solution. LANAP stands for Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure and uses specialized lasers to remove diseased tissue while preserving healthy gum and bone. Advantages of LANAP include:
- Reduced discomfort and swelling
- Faster healing times compared to traditional surgery
- Preservation of healthy tissue
- Effective for moderate to severe gum disease
Dr. Roman Shlafer is highly trained in LANAP laser therapy, making our Farmington Hills dental office a top choice for patients seeking advanced gum disease care.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Prevention is always better than treatment. Simple steps include:
- Brushing at least twice a day
- Flossing daily
- Using an antibacterial mouth rinse
- Scheduling regular dental exams and cleanings
- Avoiding tobacco products
Our team can also provide personalized advice tailored to your oral health needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and post-procedure soreness can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Many patients notice significant improvement in gum health after healing.
LANAP is safe for most adults with moderate to severe gum disease. Dr. Shlafer evaluates your oral health thoroughly to ensure you are a suitable candidate. Patients with certain medical conditions should discuss risks with our team prior to treatment.
Recovery varies depending on the procedure. Scaling and root planing typically takes one to two weeks for the gums to heal, while LANAP recovery is faster, often just a few days. Dr. Shlafer provides detailed post-care instructions to promote healing.
Yes, maintaining oral hygiene is crucial. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings at our Farmington Hills dental office help prevent recurrence. Dr. Shlafer may recommend follow-up visits or periodontal maintenance therapy to keep your gums healthy long-term.
Protect Your Gums and Preserve Your Smile at Our Farmington Hills Dental Office!
Gum disease is a common but serious condition that can affect your smile and overall health. With treatments like scaling and root planing and LANAP laser therapy, Dr. Roman Shlafer and his team in Farmington Hills, MI, provide effective solutions for every patient. From preventative care to advanced treatment, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
If you’re looking for a dentist offering gum disease treatment near Farmington Hills, schedule an appointment by calling (248) 781-0040 to take the first step toward better gum health.
