Trusted Gum Care from Off The Trace Dental in Slidell, LA
Did you know that nearly half of American adults over age 30 have some form of gum disease? That’s according to the CDC, and the number rises sharply with age. Gum disease can develop quietly, often without pain, and progress to serious problems like gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss if not treated.
At Off The Trace Dental in Slidell, LA, Dr. Pamela Daigle and her skilled team help patients take control of their oral health with comprehensive periodontal care. Whether you’re noticing bleeding gums, already managing periodontitis, or simply want to protect your smile long-term, we’re here to help.
Looking for a gentle, knowledgeable dentist near you who provides compassionate gum care? Call our dentist in Slidell today at (985) 214-2844 to schedule a consultation. We proudly serve patients from Slidell, Biloxi, New Orleans, and nearby communities.
What Is Gum Disease—and Why Is It So Common?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. It typically starts with gingivitis, the earliest stage marked by swollen or bleeding gums. Without intervention, it can progress to periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that harbor harmful bacteria.
What makes it so widespread?
- Inconsistent brushing or flossing habits
- Missed dental cleanings or a lack of routine checkups
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Health conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disease
- Genetic predisposition
Gum disease is preventable in many cases—but once it progresses, it requires ongoing management to keep it from worsening. That’s where periodontal maintenance with a dentist near Biloxi comes in.
How Periodontal Maintenance Helps Manage Gum Disease
If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontitis or have a history of gum disease, standard dental cleanings may not be enough. Periodontal maintenance is a specialized type of care designed to manage chronic gum conditions and prevent further damage.
Here’s what it involves:
- More frequent cleanings (typically every three to four months instead of every six)
- Deep cleaning below the gumline to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria
- Monitoring gum pockets and bone levels
- Antibacterial treatments or localized medication, if needed
At Off The Trace Dental, we use gentle, modern techniques to provide thorough yet comfortable periodontal care. Our goal is to stabilize your condition, reduce inflammation, and help you maintain as many of your natural teeth as possible.
Signs You Might Need Periodontal Maintenance
Not sure if periodontal maintenance is right for you? Here are some signs and symptoms that may indicate gum disease or the need for advanced cleanings:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Receding gums or teeth that look longer than before
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in your bite or how your teeth fit together
Even if your symptoms seem minor, catching gum disease early makes treatment far easier—and much more effective.
The Link Between Gum Health and Your Overall Wellness
Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth—it can impact your whole body. Research has shown strong connections between periodontal inflammation and:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes complications
- Respiratory infections
- Low birth weight or preterm birth in pregnant women
- Increased risk of stroke
Managing gum health through periodontal maintenance can reduce inflammation in the body and support overall wellness. If you have underlying medical conditions, especially diabetes or heart disease, keeping your gums healthy is an essential part of your care.
What to Expect During a Periodontal Maintenance Visit
A periodontal maintenance appointment is more thorough than a standard dental cleaning. Here’s what you can typically expect at our Slidell office:
- A careful review of your dental and medical history
- Measurement of gum pocket depth to monitor progress
- Removal of plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) above and below the gumline
- Personalized tips for at-home care based on your current gum health
- Discussion of additional treatment options, if necessary
We take a supportive approach—always tailored to your individual needs and comfort level. Call (985) 214-2844 for personalized gum disease treatment and preventive dentistry in Slidell.
Already Had a Deep Cleaning? Keep the Momentum Going
Many patients undergo scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to treat active gum infection. After this initial treatment, it’s critical to stay on track with periodontal maintenance to prevent relapse.
Skipping these visits can allow bacteria to return and undo the progress you’ve made. Sticking to your custom care schedule is the best way to preserve gum health and protect your long-term investment in your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find gum disease treatment near me?
If you’re looking for expert gum disease treatment in Slidell, LA, look no further than Off The Trace Dental. Dr. Pamela Daigle provides personalized periodontal care to help manage and treat gum disease at every stage—whether you’re dealing with early gingivitis or more advanced periodontitis. Our office proudly serves patients from Slidell, Biloxi, New Orleans, and surrounding communities. Call us today to schedule your consultation!
Does periodontal maintenance hurt?
Periodontal maintenance is typically not painful, especially when performed by an experienced and gentle provider like Dr. Daigle. You may feel some pressure or mild sensitivity during deep cleanings, but we use modern techniques and can offer numbing options if needed to keep you comfortable. Most patients find the procedure very manageable—and well worth it to protect their oral health.
What are Dr. Daigle’s office hours?
Dr. Pamela Daigle sees patients at Off The Trace Dental during the following hours: Mondays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Tuesdays through Thursdays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Fridays from 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM. The office is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. To schedule an appointment or check availability, feel free to call us at (985) 214-2844. We’re here to help you protect your smile with convenient, compassionate care.
Protect Your Smile and Your Health—Schedule Gum Care in Slidell Today
At Off The Trace Dental, we believe that excellent oral health starts with healthy gums. Whether you need help managing chronic gum disease or want to prevent future problems, our team is here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Call our Slidell dental team at (985) 214-2844 to schedule your periodontal evaluation, or ask about your gum health during your next cleaning. We proudly serve patients from Slidell, Biloxi, New Orleans, and surrounding communities with care you can trust—and smiles that last a lifetime.