O Dentistry

Shannon Obernuefemann

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(602) 242-1729

O Dentistry

777 W Bethany Home Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85013

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O Dentistry > Services > Periodontal Treatment

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy and happy smile.

Periodontal Treatment

Routine professional teeth cleanings and checkups with your Phoenix dentist are some of the best ways to protect your oral health and smile from common problems like tooth decay and gum disease.

Studies have shown a connection between the bacteria and inflammation, causing gum disease and other systemic health concerns, such as:

Cardiovascular disease
Diabetes
Dementia
Arthritis
High blood pressure
Stroke
Respiratory concerns

There have also been links between periodontal (gum) disease and complications during pregnancy, such as pregnancy diabetes and low birth weight.

When your teeth, gums, and oral health are compromised, so is your entire well-being.

Why Preventive Dental Care Is So Important

Your preventive teeth cleanings and exams are integral to protecting your oral and overall health and well-being. Here’s why you shouldn’t miss your appointment.

Protects Oral Health

We can guard your oral health by detecting and alerting you to any concerns, like gum disease, early on.

Avoid Emergencies

Maintaining oral health can help prevent certain emergencies, like tooth infections.

Less Treatment Needs

When you are proactive about preventive care, you can avoid costly and complex dental treatment.

Promotes Good Health

Protecting your oral health from gum disease also protects your overall well-being.

Beautiful Smiles

Consistent dental care promotes healthy, beautiful smiles and builds confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you treat gum disease?

At O Dentistry, our approach to treating gum disease is comprehensive and personalized for each patient. Gum disease (periodontal disease) ranges from mild gingivitis to more severe periodontitis, and early intervention is key to successful treatment.

Treating Gingivitis

For mild cases, we typically begin with professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Dr. O may recommend improving your home care routine with proper brushing techniques, daily flossing, and antimicrobial mouthwash.

Managing Periodontitis

More advanced cases may require deep cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing. This thorough cleaning reaches below the gumline to remove bacteria and smooth rough spots on tooth roots where bacteria tend to collect.

In some situations, Dr. O might prescribe antibiotic treatments, either topical or oral, to control bacterial infection. For severe cases, surgical interventions like flap surgery, bone and tissue grafts, or guided tissue regeneration may be necessary to restore damaged tissues.

Following active treatment, we emphasize maintenance care with regular follow-up appointments to monitor your gum health and prevent recurrence. These visits typically include professional cleanings and evaluations to ensure your gums remain healthy.

Protecting Your Smile

Remember, early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. If you notice symptoms like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, or loose teeth, please contact our Phoenix dental office promptly at (602) 242-1729 to book an appointment.

At O Dentistry, we're committed to not just treating gum disease but educating our patients on prevention strategies for optimal oral health long-term.

What Is Gum Disease?

Think of your gums as the primary foundation for your smile. Gum disease is an infection of the central support system for your teeth, which is your gums and jawbone.

It starts slowly, initially causing little to no pain or discomfort, making it hard to detect. It slowly progresses and attacks your gum and bone, gradually destroying them.

Did you know that gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults over 30?

Recognizing Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. During this stage, you may find that your gums bleed during brushing and flossing. You might also notice they appear red and swollen. Chronic bad breath that doesn’t go away with brushing or flossing is another sign of gingivitis.

When we detect gingivitis early on, and you’re proactive about treating it and improving your home care routine, you may be able to reverse your condition.

Our Team

Meet More of Our Team

Dr. Shannon Scott Obernuefemann

Dr. O's journey to dental excellence began in Phoenix, where he attended the prestigious Brophy College Preparatory. His academic path led him north to Northern Arizona University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, building the strong scientific foundation that would support his future dental career.

Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. O was accepted to the highly regarded Marquette University School of Dentistry. During his dental education, he distinguished himself by earning an Air Force scholarship, demonstrating his academic prowess and commitment to service.

Dr. O's commitment to clinical excellence ...

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Understanding Periodontitis

Advanced gum disease is known as periodontitis. There is no cure for periodontitis, but your dental team can help you successfully manage your condition and keep gum disease at bay.

Periodontitis is characterized by tooth mobility, biting or chewing pain, and severe gum recession. Dr. O recommends scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning that reaches beneath the gumline to eliminate the buildup of plaque and tartar, causing the infection. He might also recommend antibiotic therapy to combat the infection or gum surgery for severe cases of periodontitis.

Is it time for your next dental cleaning and checkup in Phoenix? Call O Dentistry at (602) 242-1729.