Gum Disease Treatment & Periodontal Care in Falmouth, ME
The CDC reports that 47% of adults over 30 show signs of periodontal disease. Early-stage gum disease can be easy to miss because symptoms may seem minor at first, but untreated infection can lead to progressive bone loss that becomes difficult to reverse. If you are experiencing bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or that nagging worry about your gum health, you are taking the right step by seeking professional care.
Many people assume bleeding when brushing or flossing is normal. It is not. In most cases, bleeding gums are a sign of inflammation and infection.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. The good news is that gingivitis is often reversible with professional care and improved home habits. Periodontitis, which is a more advanced form of gum disease, is more complex because it can involve loss of bone support around the teeth.
If you notice bleeding, tenderness, or gums that look swollen or darker than usual, it is worth addressing early. Treatment for gingivitis usually includes a professional cleaning, a review of brushing and flossing technique, and a personalized plan to reduce plaque buildup at home. We also monitor your gums over time so we can confirm inflammation is resolving and catch any progression early.
If you have bleeding gums, the best time to come in is now, not after symptoms get worse.
At Casco Bay Smiles, we offer periodontal treatment options tailored to your condition and comfort. Think of gum disease like rust on a car. The earlier we catch it, the less invasive the repair needs to be.
Periodontal disease begins when bacteria in your mouth form plaque along your gum line. Within 48 hours, this soft plaque hardens into tartar that only professional tools can remove. As bacteria persist, they trigger inflammation that can lead to red, swollen, bleeding gums.
Your gums are like the foundation of a house. When they weaken, everything can shift. Several factors can accelerate this process:
Prevention requires daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, antimicrobial mouthwash, and professional cleanings every 3-6 months. What takes months to develop can be prevented in minutes a day.
Recognizing periodontal disease symptoms helps you seek treatment before irreversible damage occurs. Early gingivitis presents with gums that look angry and feel puffy, bleeding when you brush. As disease progresses to periodontitis, symptoms become more severe:
Research shows periodontal disease is associated with systemic health concerns like cardiovascular conditions and diabetes. That connection is one reason prompt treatment and long-term maintenance matter.
Gum disease is not only a mouth issue. It is a chronic inflammatory condition, and chronic inflammation in the mouth can influence inflammation in the body.
Here are a few of the most important oral-systemic connections we discuss with patients:
This is also why we use salivary diagnostics. Saliva testing can help identify harmful bacteria and guide more personalized treatment recommendations, especially for patients managing diabetes, heart conditions, or other systemic concerns.
Dr. McVety’s approach includes graduate-level Kois Center education and specialized Precision Periodontal Medicine training with Dr. Doug Thompson at the Kois Center, with a focus on evidence-based salivary diagnostics and the oral-systemic health connection.
Our deep cleaning procedure (scaling and root planing) follows a systematic approach to remove buildup and reduce infection:
Most patients describe the experience as manageable, and many notice reduced bleeding and irritation as healing progresses.
Treatment choice depends on disease severity and your response to non-surgical therapy. We always start with the least invasive approach that will effectively address your condition.
Scaling and Root Planing is effective when:
Surgical treatment may be necessary when:
Studies show that patients with moderate periodontal disease respond successfully to non-surgical treatment, avoiding the need for surgery when combined with proper maintenance.
Choosing the right provider depends on your condition and the type of care you need. At Casco Bay Smiles, we provide comprehensive non-surgical periodontal care in-house, supported by advanced diagnostics and technology.
This approach allows you to receive advanced non-surgical periodontal care with our team, and specialty surgical care through trusted periodontal partners when needed.
Our Picasso laser technology can be used alongside deep cleaning to support periodontal care. Laser therapy can help reduce inflamed tissue and bacterial burden in treated areas, and many patients appreciate the comfort-focused approach.
Potential benefits include:
Laser therapy is not a replacement for deep cleaning, but it can be a helpful adjunct in the right cases.
Treatment needs vary widely depending on severity, how many areas are involved, and what diagnostics or adjunctive therapies are recommended. As a general reference, treatment for moderate gum disease typically costs between $1,500 and $3,500.
We offer financing options to help make treatment manageable. Contact our office to discuss your needs and payment options, and we will provide a clear estimate after your evaluation.
Long-term success depends on consistent periodontal maintenance. These visits differ from routine cleanings because they focus on previously diseased areas and ongoing monitoring.
The goal of maintenance is to keep gum disease stable and reduce the chance of recurrence.
Is deep cleaning painful?
We use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Many patients are surprised by how manageable it feels, and we can discuss sedation options if you feel anxious.
What sedation options are available for gum disease treatment?
For patients who feel anxious about periodontal care, we have sedation options to help you stay relaxed and comfortable throughout your appointment. Before your visit, we review your health history and medications to determine what is appropriate for you.
How long does gum disease treatment take?
That depends on severity. Some patients complete treatment in one or two visits, then transition into maintenance.
Can gum disease be cured?
Gingivitis can often be reversed. Periodontitis is usually managed long-term with treatment and maintenance to keep it stable.
How often do I need periodontal maintenance?
Most patients benefit from maintenance every 3 to 6 months. Your schedule depends on your risk factors and how your gums respond.
What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
Gingivitis is early inflammation and is often reversible. Periodontitis is a more advanced condition that can involve bone loss and requires ongoing management.
Do not let gum disease compromise your oral health or overall well-being. At Casco Bay Smiles, Dr. McVety’s advanced periodontal training, combined with saliva testing and laser therapy, allows us to provide comprehensive non-surgical periodontal care in-house. If your case requires surgical intervention, we partner with trusted periodontal specialists to ensure you receive the right care.
Contact our office today to schedule your periodontal evaluation and take the first step toward healthier gums and a more confident smile.
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