Periodontics in Nashua, NH
Treatment for gum disease and ongoing care
that helps keep your gums and teeth healthy.
Why gum health matters
Your gums and the bone beneath them hold your teeth in place. When plaque and tartar build up along and below the gumline, bacteria can inflame the gums. Left untreated, that inflammation can spread to the bone that supports the teeth.
Gum disease often develops without pain, so many people do not notice it until it has progressed. In its later stages it can cause gums to pull away from the teeth, teeth to loosen, and eventually tooth loss. Finding and treating it early makes a real difference.
Dr. Balani's practice provides periodontal treatment in our Nashua office, from routine gum evaluations to deep cleaning and ongoing maintenance. Every plan starts with a careful exam of your gums, so we can recommend care that matches what we find.
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Signs of gum disease
Call us for an evaluation if you notice any of these. Some people have gum disease with no obvious symptoms, which is one reason regular exams matter.
Bleeding gums
Gums that bleed when you brush or floss are often an early sign of inflammation. Read more in Why are my gums bleeding?.
Red, swollen, or tender gums
Healthy gums are firm and pink. Puffy, dark red, or sore gums can mean the tissue is inflamed.
Receding gums
Teeth that look longer, or gums that seem to pull back, can point to gum disease. See I think my gums are receding.
Bad breath that does not go away
Bacteria below the gumline can cause persistent bad breath or a bad taste.
Loose teeth or a change in your bite
As the supporting bone is affected, teeth can shift or feel loose.
How we treat gum disease
Treatment depends on how far gum disease has progressed. Here is how care usually works.
Step 1
Evaluate
We measure the space between your gums and teeth, check for bleeding and recession, and take X-rays when needed to look at the supporting bone.
Step 2
Deep clean
Scaling and root planing removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces so the gums can heal and reattach.
Step 3
Treat further if needed
For more advanced cases, we discuss additional treatment, such as gum grafts for areas where gums have receded.
Step 4
Maintain
Regular periodontal cleanings and checkups help keep gum disease under control and let us spot changes early.
Deep cleaning: scaling and root planing
A deep cleaning goes beyond a routine cleaning. It reaches below the gumline, where gum disease does most of its damage.
How it differs from a regular cleaning
A routine cleaning focuses on the teeth above and just at the gumline. Scaling and root planing cleans deeper, along the roots, where pockets have formed between the gums and teeth.
Staying comfortable
We numb the area before treatment, and the cleaning may be done in more than one visit. Sedation options are available if you feel anxious.
After treatment
Your gums may feel tender for a few days. We will check how they are healing at a follow-up visit and talk about how often you should come in for cleanings.
Care at home
Brushing twice a day, cleaning between your teeth daily, and keeping up with checkups all help your gums stay healthy after treatment.
Our approach to gum care
We look at your gum health as part of your overall dental care. Healthy gums protect your natural teeth, and they matter for crowns, bridges, and dental implants as well, so we keep a close eye on them at every visit.
We explain what we find in plain language, show you where problem areas are, and work with you on a care plan you can keep up with at home. If you feel nervous about treatment, we will talk through comfort options before we begin.
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Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about gum disease and periodontal care, so you can feel prepared before your visit.
Still have questions?
Our front office is happy to help before your visit, from scheduling to payment.
115 Daniel Webster Hwy, Nashua. Get directions
Schedule your visit
New patients call to schedule. We are on Daniel Webster Highway in Nashua.
115 Daniel Webster Hwy, Nashua, NH 03060
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