Gum Disease Treatment – San Jose, CA

Let Us Help Protect Your Gums

Man giving woman a piggyback ride

Healthy gums contribute to good systemic well-being. But when the majority of adults have gum disease, that’s bad news for public health. Fortunately, Dr. Thanh provides periodontal therapy for infected gums. From treating the condition in its beginning stages (gingivitis) to a more significant infection that causes deep pockets between teeth and gums, we will put together a plan to help you enjoy full smile health as soon as possible. Patients from San Jose benefit from experienced gum disease treatment with Dr. Thanh.

Why Choose Dr. Kelly Thanh for Periodontal Therapy?

  • Gentle & Precise Laser Gum Therapy
  • Gum Recontouring Performed In-House
  • Thorough Gum Exam at Every Checkup

Scaling & Root Planing

Illustration of scaling and root planing for gum disease treatment

Healthy teeth fit tightly in the gums. Scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning, is the recommended treatment for pockets that have reached a certain depth — usually 4 to 5 millimeters deep. To perform the treatment, we use precise tools to remove infection-causing bacteria from above and below the gum line. The treatment is usually completed over a couple of visits to the dentist and may be combined with antibiotic therapy for full healing (see below).

 

Soft Tissue Laser

Illustration of gums being treated with laser

The Picasso Lite Plus helps us remove dead, diseased tissue to reshape pockets that have formed as a result of gum disease. It’s usually required for more severe cases of gum disease and can help to prevent damage to the jaw bone tissue. Unlike traditional periodontal therapy, gum procedures performed with the soft tissue laser are incredibly precise, efficient and provide comfortable treatments and speedy recoveries. The Picasso Lite Plus actually encourages healing as it works.

 

Antibiotic Therapy

Filling a vial with a needle

Gum disease is a bacterial infection, so oftentimes, antibiotic therapy is prescribed to help kill the infection. The bacteria that cause gum disease repopulate especially quickly, so it is difficult to fully heal infected gums with individual scaling and root planing treatments. When deep cleanings are not enough on their own, Dr. Thanh may recommend antibiotic therapy. Powder antibiotic is placed directly on the infected area to speed up healing for a happier smile, faster.