Providence Dental Care
A Great Dentist
Providence Dental Care is now offering special deals for new patients! Click here to learn more.
Periodontal Treatment
Protecting Gum Health

We provide personalised periodontal treatment in Providence and West Lakes, SA.

Periodontal Treatment | Dentist

Periodontal Treatment

Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong, lasting smile. Periodontal disease—commonly known as gum disease—can lead to gum recession, bone loss and even tooth loss if left untreated. At Providence Dental Care, we provide comprehensive periodontal treatment designed to manage and prevent gum disease.

Our team works with each patient to create a personalised care plan that addresses current concerns, prevents future problems and supports long-term oral health.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning procedure designed to treat early to moderate gum disease. Plaque and tartar build up along the gumline and beneath it, causing inflammation and infection.

During the procedure:

  • Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and below the gumline.
  • Root planing smooths the roots of your teeth, helping gums reattach and reducing pockets where bacteria can accumulate.

This non-surgical treatment is highly effective at controlling gum disease, reducing inflammation and preventing progression to more severe stages. It is often the first step in comprehensive periodontal care.

Benefits of Periodontal Treatment

Treating and managing gum disease can help protect your teeth and support overall oral health. Professional periodontal care is designed to helps stop disease progression, prevent complications and maintain a healthy, functional mouth. Here are three benefits of periodontal treatment in Providence, SA.
Reduces Gum Inflammation and Discomfort
Professional treatment helps remove plaque, tartar and harmful bacteria from below the gumline aimed to reduce redness, swelling and bleeding. Many patients experience less discomfort while promoting healing and healthier gums.
Protects Teeth and Bone Structure
Untreated gum disease can lead to bone loss and tooth mobility. Periodontal therapy aims to strengthen the supporting structures of your teeth, prevent tooth loss and preserve long-term oral function.
Supports Overall Oral Health
Healthy gums contribute to better oral hygiene and can even reduce the risk of other health complications linked to gum disease, such as cardiovascular issues and diabetes-related problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Gum disease often develops gradually, and early symptoms can be easy to overlook. Common warning signs include:

  • Red, swollen or bleeding gums
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Gum recession
  • Loose teeth

You might also notice tenderness or discomfort when chewing, or gums that feel sensitive or pull away from your teeth. If any of these symptoms appear, it’s important to schedule a dental evaluation promptly.

During your appointment, your dentist will examine your gums for inflammation, measure the depth of gum pockets around each tooth and check for bone loss or other signs of periodontal disease. Based on this assessment, your dentist will recommend a tailored treatment plan, which could include scaling and root planing, periodontal maintenance, or more advanced therapies if necessary. Early intervention often prevents the progression of gum disease and helps maintain long-term oral health.

Maintaining Healthy Gums at Home

Maintaining your gums between dental visits is essential:

  • Daily brushing and flossing remove plaque and bacteria that can irritate the gums.
  • Using an antiseptic or fluoride mouthwash can further reduce harmful bacteria and freshen breath.
  • Avoiding tobacco products, eating a balanced diet and managing stress also support gum health.
  • Regular dental check-ups and cleanings, combined with good at-home care, are the most effective ways to prevent gum disease and protect your smile for years to come.

Have questions or need to book your visit? We welcome your call. 

Periodontal Maintenance

Once gum disease is under control, periodontal maintenance in Providence can help preserve results and prevent recurrence. Maintenance visits are typically more frequent than standard dental cleanings and focus on: 

  • Monitoring gum health and pocket depths
  • Removing plaque and tartar from areas difficult to reach at home
  • Detecting early signs of infection or inflammation
  • Reinforcing proper oral hygiene habits

Regular periodontal maintenance is key to long-term gum health, especially for patients with a history of gum disease or ongoing risk factors.

Gum Disease Therapy

For more advanced periodontal disease, gum disease therapy may be necessary. Treatment is tailored to the severity and extent of infection and may include:

  • Deep cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing
  • Antimicrobial therapy to reduce harmful bacteria
  • Laser therapy or minimally invasive surgical options in select cases
  • Guidance on lifestyle changes and oral hygiene to support healing

Early intervention and consistent care can help prevent further damage, preserve supporting bone structure and protect natural teeth.

  • Dr Caleb Harvie B.HSci(Dent) M.Dent

    Dr Caleb Harvie is the principal dentist and founder of Providence Dental Care, where he leads the practice with a focus on high standards of care for both patients and ...

    Read More
  • Dr Meg Harvie BHSc MDent DClinDent (Paediatrics)

    Dr Meg Harvie is a specialist paediatric dentist with extensive experience managing complex paediatric dental cases. She is skilled in providing treatment under nitrous oxide sedation and general anaesthesia, aiming ...

    Read More

We Invite You to Book Your Periodontal Check-Up

If you are experiencing swollen, bleeding or receding gums—or if you want to maintain healthy gums—we invite you to a consultation at Providence Dental Care. Our team will assess your periodontal health, recommend appropriate treatments such as scaling and root planing, periodontal maintenance or gum disease therapy. We want to help create a tailored plan to protect your smile for years to come.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.