Bleeding when you brush may seem minor, but it is often the first sign of gum disease. Caught early, gum inflammation can often be reversed, and advanced cases can often be controlled with steady care.
At Higher Standards Dental Studio, Dr. Rickin Vibhakar provides gum disease treatment on Decatur Square, from deep cleanings to ongoing maintenance. Gum care is closely tied to our preventive dentistry in Decatur, so we check your gums at every visit.
Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums and bone holding your teeth in place. Research has linked it with diabetes and heart disease, so Dr. Vibhakar reviews your full health history along with your mouth.
Gum disease is also very common. Data from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research show about 42% of U.S. adults age 30 and older have periodontitis, and the rate rises to about 60% among adults with diabetes and about 62% among current smokers.
Many patients feel embarrassed about their gums after time away from the dentist. Our studio is judgment-free, with weighted blankets, noise-canceling headphones, and stress balls to help you settle in.
Nitrous oxide is also available if you feel anxious during treatment.
Dr. Vibhakar shows you intraoral camera photos and explains what your gum pocket measurements mean.
You’ll know the plan, the number of visits, and the cost before any treatment begins.
Scaling and root planing, often called a deep cleaning, is the main nonsurgical treatment for gum disease. We remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline, then smooth the root surfaces so bacteria have a harder time sticking. Treatment is often split into two or more visits.
In the weeks after treatment, healthy tissue can begin to tighten around the teeth again. We then recheck your gums to see how well they have healed and plan your next steps.
Gum disease begins as gingivitis, when plaque irritates the gums but the bone is still healthy. At this stage, a cleaning and better home care can often reverse it. In periodontitis, pockets form between the gums and teeth, and the supporting bone can break down. Watch for these warning signs.
Some people notice no signs at all. If gum disease has already cost you a tooth, dental implants in Decatur may be an option once your gums are healthy.
Gum disease is a long-term condition, so lasting results depend on steady care. Dr. Vibhakar looks at the factors behind it, such as smoking, diabetes, grinding, and your bite, so your plan addresses the cause.
Some advanced cases need surgery, such as gum grafting. When surgery is needed, Dr. Vibhakar can refer you to a periodontist and coordinate your care. Once your gums are stable, our cosmetic dentistry options can help with the look of your smile.
Dr. Rickin Vibhakar has more than 10 years of clinical experience, including private practice at 60th and Park in Manhattan. He is an active member of the Kois Center, where training focuses on how the teeth, gums, and bite work together, and he has completed training in laser dentistry.
He has also completed more than 500 hours of continuing education toward Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry, and he explains your gum health in plain terms.
Here are answers to common questions about gum disease and deep cleanings. If yours isn’t covered, we’re happy to help when you get in touch with our team.
Many PPO plans cover part of the cost of scaling and root planing and maintenance visits. Our team can check your dental insurance coverage before treatment, and flexible dental financing can help with any remaining balance. If you don’t have insurance, ask about our in-house membership plans.
Most patients feel little discomfort, because we numb the area first. Some tenderness for a few days afterward is normal and usually fades with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Daily brushing and flossing can help prevent gum disease and keep gingivitis from getting worse. Tartar below the gumline takes professional tools to remove, so home care works best alongside regular visits.
Most patients with a history of gum disease need maintenance visits every three to four months instead of twice a year. Dr. Vibhakar adjusts your schedule based on how your gums respond.
Dr. Rickin Vibhakar and our team offer calm, judgment-free care on Decatur Square, backed by more than 10 years of experience and modern tools like 3D CBCT imaging. We work with many PPO plans and offer flexible financing to help care fit your budget.
Whether you need a checkup, a repair, or a fresh smile, we look forward to meeting you. Schedule your appointment at our Decatur studio today.
