Periodontal Treatment in Decatur, GA: Gentle Gum Disease Care at Decatur Dental Care

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Noticing bleeding gums or tenderness? These may signal gum disease-we’re here to help with early, non-surgical solutions.
You may be wondering:

What helps improve gum health when bleeding or tenderness begins?

When your gums are acting up, it’s often because bacteria are building up where they shouldn’t be. At Decatur Dental Care, Dr. Megan Post offers gentle, non-surgical treatments designed to tackle gum issues early. With regular professional cleanings, consistent at-home care, and routine checkups, we can help your gums heal and regain their health and strength. As Dr. Post often says:

“Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. When we care for your gums, we’re protecting your entire body. Our goal is to make treatment as comfortable, conservative, and effective as possible”

Many patients are pleasantly surprised to find that early gum problems can often be reversed with timely care. We’re dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain lasting gum health through personalized treatment and heartfelt support.

What Is Gum Disease and Why Does It Matter?

Gum disease (periodontal disease) affects supporting tissues, starting as gingivitis (inflammation, bleeding) and progressing to periodontitis (recession, tooth loss). Good news: Early gum disease treatment in Decatur stops it! Dr. Post provides conservative care to restore health and prevent issues.

Why Taking Care of Your Gums Is So Important

Healthy gums support teeth, provide comfort, and contribute to overall health, thereby preventing problems. Benefits include:
  • Preventing tooth loss and damage.
  • Stopping bleeding, swelling, and tenderness.
  • Reducing inflammation for wellness.
  • Fresh breath and a confident smile.
  • Strong foundation for dental care.
At Decatur Dental Care, gum care is a smart investment for long-term health.

What Causes Gum Disease and Who Is Most at Risk?

Gum disease develops when harmful bacteria build up along the gumline, leading to infection. Decatur Dental Care places a strong emphasis on preventive care, which is essential, including brushing, flossing, and regular visits for cleanings. Several factors can increase your risk for gum problems, including:
  • Plaque buildup from poor oral hygiene
  • Smoking or tobacco use
  • Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or menopause
  • Certain medications or conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease
  • Family history of gum problems
  • Chronic stress or an unbalanced diet
Anyone can develop gum disease, but individuals with underlying health issues or a history of irregular dental visits are at a higher risk. That’s why Dr. Post focuses on prevention and guides you in understanding your unique risk factors, enabling you to develop healthy habits for life.

How Do I Know If I Have Gum Disease?

Early signs of gum disease can sometimes be easy to overlook, which is why regular dental visits are so important! Here are some warning signs to watch out for:
  • Bleeding when brushing or flossing
  • Puffy, red, or tender gums
  • Bad breath or a bad taste that will not go away
  • Teeth that appear longer due to gum recession
  • Loose teeth or changes in the way your bite feels
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait; schedule a visit! Dr. Post and her team will evaluate your gums and provide gentle treatment to address any issues. With early care, most gum problems can be reversed, helping you regain both comfort and confidence in your smile.

Concerned about your gums?

Book a gum health evaluation.

What Types of Gum Treatments Are Available?

Periodontal treatments in Decatur prevent and manage gum disease:
Type of Gum Treatment Purpose What It Involves When It’s Needed
Prophylaxis (Regular Cleaning) Prevents plaque buildup and inflammation Gentle cleaning above the gums Every 6 months for healthy gums
Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) Removes hardened plaque and bacteria below the gums Local anesthesia, ultrasonic scaling, root smoothing Early to moderate gum disease
Periodontal Maintenance Keeps gums healthy after deep cleaning Cleanings every 3–4 months Ongoing prevention post-therapy
Antibiotic / Irrigation Therapy Reduces bacterial infection Topical antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses As part of gum disease treatment
Gum Recession Treatment Protects roots and reduces sensitivity Conservative grafting or bonding When gums recede or roots are exposed
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding) Therapy Prevents gum and bone stress Custom nightguards If clenching or grinding is contributing
Oral Cancer Screenings Detects early changes in tissues Quick, painless visual exam During every routine visit
Contact us to discuss what’s best for you.

How We Diagnose and Treat Gum Disease

Your comfort and understanding are always our top priorities. During your periodontal treatment visit, Dr. Megan Post and her team take the time to explain every step, ensuring you feel confident and at ease. Here’s what you can expect:
  • Comprehensive Evaluation – We assess your gum health and bone levels using gentle measurements and digital X-rays to provide a thorough evaluation. Personalized Treatment – Depending on your needs, Dr. Post may recommend:
    • Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) – Removes bacteria and tartar from below the gumline.
    • Antibiotic Therapy – Targets and reduces infection to promote healing.
    • Irrigation or Antimicrobial Rinses – Helps reduce inflammation and encourage tissue recovery.
  • Maintenance Plan – Regular cleanings every three to four months to maintain gum health and prevent reinfection.
Dr. Post’s approach is conservative, comfortable, and focused on helping you take charge of your oral health with clarity and confidence.

"I want to commend Dr. Post and the entire team at NMS Dentistry for their exceptional care, technical expertise, and the warm, welcoming environment they’ve created. I felt completely at ease in the calming dental space and am confident in returning for future treatments. The team is highly skilled, knowledgeable, and efficient in every aspect of their work. NMS Dentistry has my highest recommendation. Just very nice people there."

Bill P.
Bill P.

"Dr. Post, Nora and the rest of the staff at NMR are fantastic. Dr. Post has a great bedside manner, is very thorough in explaining what she is doing and why, while also being efficient and focused. Nora has been so helpful and diligent about working with my insurance company, which is not easy. I highly recommend Dr. Post and the entire team at NMR wholeheartedly. 10/10."
Alison
Alison B.

"Had my new-patient-intake-supersesh and the team was absolutely rockstar all around, from Nora to Melanie to Janelle (sorry if I got the name wrong! ^^) literally everyone was incredibly informative, attentive, understanding, and genuinely gave a hoot about setting me and my next appointments up for success. Highly recommend checkin' them out!"

Patrick K.
Patrick K.

"Dr. Post and her staff are absolutely amazing and do such a wonderful job taking care of their patients. You’ll be glad you visited after the first consultation - super through exam, they’ll explain your care plan, and give guidance on preventative maintenance. 10 out of 10 would recommend for your oral health care."

Emily P.
Emily P.

"I sought out Dr. Post after learning that she had moved from another practice I went to for years. Dr. Post is the most gentle and friendly dentist I've ever had. Melanie was my hygienist and gave me the most thorough and best exam I've had in years. I would highly recommend this practice."

Greg
Greg T.

Meet Dr. Megan Post – Your Trusted Periodontal Dentist in Decatur

Dr. Megan Post, DDS, MAGD, leads Decatur Dental Care with more than 22 years of experience and a focus on high-quality, conservative dentistry. As a Master in the Academy of General Dentistry, she is extensively trained to manage complex periodontal cases, with patient comfort at the center of every visit. Dr. Post’s mission is to help patients feel cared for and confident about their oral health. Gum care does not have to be intimidating; it is about taking small, consistent steps that make a big difference. Her friendly, skilled team shares that same dedication to creating a warm, family-like environment for every patient. Together, they provide the kind of thoughtful, personalized care that helps patients feel understood, respected, and at ease.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Disease and Periodontal Care in Decatur, GA

What are the different types of gum treatments?

Common periodontal treatments include professional cleanings, deep cleanings (also known as scaling and root planing), antibiotic therapy, and regular maintenance visits to maintain your gum health.

How can I tell if I have gum disease?

Watch for bleeding gums, tenderness, swelling, or persistent bad breath. If you notice any of these signs, schedule an exam so Dr. Megan Post can evaluate your gum health.

What happens during a deep cleaning?

A deep cleaning removes bacteria and tartar from below the gumline. We also smooth the roots to help your gums heal and reattach more easily to your teeth.

Can gum disease affect my overall health?

Yes. Chronic inflammation from gum disease has been linked to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems. Treating gum disease helps reduce inflammation and supports better overall health.

How can I prevent gum problems from returning?

Brush and floss daily, eat a balanced diet, and visit Decatur Dental Care for regular cleanings and checkups. Consistent care is the key to maintaining healthy gums for life.

How much does periodontal treatment cost?

Periodontal treatment typically ranges from $200 to $1,000* or more per session, depending on the complexity of your case. Most dental insurance plans offer some level of coverage for periodontal care. While we are not contracted with specific insurance providers, our team can file claims on your behalf. This pricing is current as of the time of writing but is subject to change. Contact us to confirm pricing.

*Please note that pricing varies based on numerous factors such as cash pay vs insurance, complexity of the procedure, and is subject to change. Please call us for the most current pricing.

Schedule Your Periodontal Appointment in Decatur

Do not ignore bleeding or tender gums. Early care makes all the difference in protecting your smile and preventing more serious problems. Contact us by clicking below to schedule your gum health appointment today. Dr. Megan Post and her team are conveniently located in Decatur, Georgia, near Emory Decatur Hospital. We are here to help you enjoy a lifetime of healthy gums, strong teeth, and confident smiles. Call us today to schedule an appointment: (404) 299-0123.

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