Periodontist and Dental Implants in San Antonio, TX Stone Oak, Alamo Ranch, Pleasanton
Making Periodontal Visits Less Painful
Posted on 9/1/2025 by Amir Hosseini, DDS
Visiting the dentist can be stressful for some people, especially if they have had negative experiences in the past. If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, or suspect you might have it, you might be worried about seeing a periodontist. However, taking care of your oral health is important, and periodontal care can help prevent serious problems with your teeth and gums.
This guide is designed to help you understand what to expect during a periodontal visit and how you can make the experience less painful.
What is Periodontal Care?
Periodontal care is a branch of dentistry that specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that can damage the soft tissues and bones that support your teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems.
What to Expect During a Periodontal Visit?
Your first appointment with a periodontist will typically involve:
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A Consultation: The periodontist will ask you about your medical history, current medications, and any concerns you may have.
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An Examination: The periodontist will examine your teeth and gums, and may take x-rays to assess the health of your bone.
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A Deep Cleaning: If needed, the periodontist will perform a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. This procedure may cause some discomfort, but the periodontist can use local anesthetic to numb the area.
Following the initial appointment, the periodontist may recommend additional treatments based on the severity of your gum disease. These treatments may include:
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Scaling and Root Planing: This is a more thorough cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from deeper pockets around your teeth.
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Antibiotics: In some cases, the periodontist may prescribe antibiotics to fight infection.
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Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged tissue or bone.
Tips for Making Periodontal Visits Less Painful
There are several things you can do to make your periodontal visits less painful:
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Communicate with your periodontist: Let your periodontist know if you are anxious or have had negative experiences in the past. They can work with you to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
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Take pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation after a deep cleaning or other procedures.
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Use ice packs: Apply ice packs to your face to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
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Eat soft foods: Avoid hard or crunchy foods that can irritate your gums.
By following these tips, you can help make your periodontal visits less painful and ensure that you are receiving the best possible care for your periodontal health.
Dental Blog - San Antonio • Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists We post dental blogs to pique your interest and educate our San Antonio community about topics related to dentistry, dental implants, and oral health. Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists, 1130 E Sonterra Blvd, Suite 120, San Antonio, TX 78258 - (210) 614-4700 - aestheticperiodontist.com - 10/2/2025 - Key Phrases: Dental Implants San Antonio TX -
Visiting the dentist can be stressful for some people, especially if they have had negative experiences in the past. If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, or suspect you might have it, you might be worried about seeing a periodontist. However, taking care of your oral health is important, and periodontal care can help prevent serious problems with your teeth and gums.