Healthy gums are essential to a healthy smile. At Cheek Dental, Dr. Kristina Chandler and Dr. Cristi Cheek take a whole-health approach to gum care, treating both early and advanced forms of gum disease with skill and compassion.
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile—and a healthy body. Your gum tissue and the underlying bone support your teeth, protect them from harmful bacteria, and play a critical role in long-term oral stability. When gum disease develops, it isn’t just a localized issue; it’s a chronic inflammatory condition that can progressively damage the structures that hold your teeth in place.
Gum disease begins when bacterial plaque accumulates below the gumline, triggering an immune response that leads to inflammation. Over time, this inflammation can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating periodontal pockets where bacteria thrive. If left untreated, this process can result in bone loss, gum recession, tooth mobility, and eventually tooth loss.
Beyond oral health, research has shown strong connections between periodontal disease and systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory illness, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Chronic inflammation in the mouth can place additional stress on the body’s immune system, making gum health an important part of whole-body wellness.
At Cheek Dental, we view gum care as preventive medicine. By diagnosing and treating gum disease early—and maintaining healthy gum tissue long-term—we help protect not only your smile, but your overall health as well.
Early-Stage Care (Gingivitis): Thorough cleanings, home care guidance, and routine monitoring
Advanced Care: Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), local antimicrobial therapy, and ongoing maintenance visits
In more advanced cases, additional treatment beyond nonsurgical care may be necessary to protect oral health. While surgical periodontal procedures—such as pocket reduction or gum grafting—are not performed in our office, Cheek Dental works closely with trusted periodontal specialists when referral-based care is indicated. We carefully coordinate with these specialists to ensure continuity of care and long-term success.
After treatment, regular periodontal maintenance visits and exams are essential to maintaining results and reducing the risk of recurrence.
For more resources on gum health, visit the American Academy of Periodontology.
With a focus on whole-health dentistry, Dr. Kristina Chandler and Dr. Cristi Cheek take time to understand each patient’s needs so routine visits feel comfortable, thorough, and truly individualized.
