Periodontal Care

  • Emergency Appointments Available

  • Works Directly With Insurance and Accepts Most PPOs

  • Same-Day Appointments Available

Business Hours

Monday, Wednesday & Thursday - 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Tuesday - 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Friday to Sunday - Closed

Dental Services

Our Periodontal Care Services

Gum Infection Therapy - Scaling and Root Planing

At The Cosmetic & Laser Dental Spa of Richmond, we are dedicated to providing advanced periodontal care to ensure the health and longevity of

your smile. Gum infection therapy, particularly Scaling and Root Planing,

is a cornerstone treatment for managing periodontal disease and preventing further complications.

What is Gum Infection Therapy?

Gum infection therapy involves various treatments designed to eliminate infection, reduce inflammation, and restore the health of your gums. Scaling and Root Planing (SRP) is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for periodontal disease.


This deep cleaning procedure targets the root cause of gum disease by removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gum line and smoothing the root surfaces of the teeth.

Understanding Scaling and Root Planing

  • Scaling: Scaling involves the removal of plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the tooth surfaces and periodontal pockets. Using specialized dental instruments, our skilled hygienists meticulously clean the areas above and below the gumline to eliminate the bacterial buildup that contributes to gum infection.

  • Root Planing: Root Planing is the process of smoothing the root surfaces of the teeth. This step is crucial as it removes bacterial toxins and creates a clean, smooth surface, allowing the gums to reattach to the teeth more effectively. Smoothing the roots also helps prevent future plaque accumulation, reducing the risk of recurring infection.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

  • Eliminates Bacteria: Thoroughly removes bacteria and toxins responsible for gum infection.

  • Reduces Inflammation: Alleviates gum inflammation and bleeding, promoting healthier gums.

  • Prevents Progression: Halts the progression of periodontal disease, preventing more severe complications.

  • Promotes Healing: Encourages the reattachment of gums to teeth and supports the regeneration of healthy gum tissue.

  • Enhances Oral Health: Improves overall oral health and reduces the risk of tooth loss.

Procedure Overview

1. Comprehensive Examination: The process begins with a detailed examination of your gums and teeth. We use periodontal probes to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums to assess the severity of the gum disease.

2. Local Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort, we may administer local anesthesia to numb the treatment area.

3. Scaling: Using ultrasonic scalers and manual instruments, we meticulously remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.

4. Root Planing: The root surfaces are carefully smoothed to eliminate bacterial toxins and create a clean surface for gum reattachment.

5. Professional Fluoride Treatment: Fluoride is applied to strengthen your teeth and protect against decay and sensitivity.

6. Antimicrobial Treatment: In some cases, antimicrobial agents are applied to the periodontal pockets to reduce bacterial growth and promote healing.

7. Post-Treatment Care: We provide personalized oral hygiene instructions to help you maintain the health of your gums at home. We may also recommend a follow-up visit to monitor your progress and ensure optimal healing.

Who Needs Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and Root Planing is typically recommended for patients with:

  • Gingivitis: Early-stage gum disease characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

  • Periodontitis: Advanced gum disease with deeper periodontal pockets, gum recession, and potential bone loss.

  • Chronic Gum Infections: Persistent gum infections that have not responded to regular cleanings.

Who Needs Scaling and Root Planing?

After the procedure, it is essential to follow a thorough oral hygiene routine to maintain the health of your gums and prevent recurrence. This includes:

  • Regular Brushing and Flossing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.

  • Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Use an antimicrobial mouthwash as recommended to reduce bacterial growth.

  • Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet and avoid sugary foods and drinks that can contribute to plaque buildup.

  • Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to monitor your gum health and receive professional care.

If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, such as swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, it is crucial to seek treatment promptly. Contact The Cosmetic & Laser Dental Spa of Richmond today to schedule your Scaling and Root Planing appointment and take the first step towards healthier gums and a brighter smile.

Perio Protect

At The Cosmetic & Laser Dental Spa of Richmond, we are committed to offering advanced solutions for managing gum disease. Perio Protect is an innovative, non-invasive treatment that effectively targets periodontal disease, providing a convenient and comfortable approach to improving your gum health.

What is Perio Protect?

Perio Protect is a comprehensive periodontal treatment system that uses custom-fitted trays to deliver medication directly into the periodontal pockets. This method targets the bacteria causing gum disease, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing. The Perio Protect system is designed to be used at home, making it a convenient addition to your daily oral hygiene routine.

How Does Perio Protect Work?

The Perio Protect system utilizes specially designed trays that fit snugly over your teeth and gums. These trays are filled with a prescribed antimicrobial medication that is delivered directly to the gum pockets. The medication helps to eliminate bacteria, reduce inflammation, and promote gum healing.

Benefits of Perio Protect:

  • Non-Invasive: Perio Protect offers a non-surgical option for managing periodontal disease, reducing the need for invasive procedures.

  • Targeted Treatment: The custom trays deliver medication directly to the infected areas, ensuring effective treatment of the gum pockets.

  • Convenient: The trays are easy to use at home, making it simple to incorporate into your daily oral hygiene routine.

  • Reduces Inflammation: Helps to alleviate gum inflammation and bleeding, improving overall gum health.

  • Promotes Healing: Supports the regeneration of healthy gum tissue and prevents the progression of gum disease.

  • Complementary Treatment: Works well in conjunction with other periodontal treatments, such as scaling and root planing, to enhance overall results.

Procedure Overview

1. Initial Examination: During your initial visit, our dental team will perform a thorough examination of your gums to assess the severity of your periodontal disease.

2. Custom Tray Fabrication: Impressions of your teeth and gums are taken to create custom-fitted trays that will be used for the treatment.

3. Medication Prescription: Based on your specific needs, a prescribed antimicrobial medication is provided to use with the trays.

4. Instructions for Use: You will receive detailed instructions on how to use the Perio Protect trays at home. This typically involves wearing the trays for a prescribed duration each day.

5. Professional Fluoride Treatment: During your dental visits, fluoride may be applied to strengthen your teeth and enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.

6. Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor your progress, adjust the treatment if necessary, and ensure optimal results.

Who Can Benefit from Perio Protect?

Perio Protect is suitable for patients with various stages of periodontal disease, from mild gingivitis to more advanced periodontitis. It is particularly beneficial for patients looking for a non-invasive, at-home treatment option to manage their gum health.

Post-Treatment Care

Maintaining good oral hygiene practices is essential to the success of the Perio Protect treatment. This includes:

  • Brushing and Flossing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.

  • Using the Trays as Directed: Follow the prescribed usage of the Perio Protect trays to ensure effective treatment.

  • Regular Dental Visits: Continue to schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to monitor your gum health and receive professional care.

  • Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, avoid tobacco use, and limit sugary foods and drinks to support overall oral health.

Take control of your gum health with Perio Protect. Contact Cosmetic & Laser Dental Spa of Richmond today to learn more about this innovative treatment and schedule your consultation. Our dedicated team is here to help you achieve healthier gums and a brighter smile.

Periodontal Maintenance

At The Cosmetic & Laser Dental Spa of Richmond, we recognize the critical role that gum health plays in your overall well-being. For patients with a history of gum disease, maintaining periodontal health is essential to prevent the recurrence of disease and protect your overall health. Our Periodontal Maintenance program is specifically designed to provide ongoing care and support for patients with periodontal disease.

What is Periodontal Maintenance?

Periodontal Maintenance is a specialized, ongoing care regimen tailored for patients who have previously been treated for periodontal (gum) disease. Unlike regular dental cleanings, periodontal maintenance focuses on controlling the infection and inflammation associated with gum disease to prevent its progression and recurrence.

Importance of Periodontal Maintenance

Maintaining a regular schedule of periodontal maintenance visits is crucial because:

  • Prevents Disease Recurrence: Regular cleaning and monitoring help to control the bacteria that cause gum disease.

  • Reduces Inflammation: Helps to manage and reduce gum inflammation and bleeding.

  • Preserves Oral Health: Maintains the health of your gums, bone structure, and teeth, reducing the risk of tooth loss.

  • Promotes Overall Health: Emerging research indicates a strong connection between periodontal health and systemic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues.

Understanding the Perio-Systemic Link

The perio-systemic link refers to the connection between periodontal disease and systemic health conditions. Bacteria and inflammation associated with gum disease can enter the bloodstream, potentially impacting other parts of the body. Studies have shown that periodontal disease is linked to:

  • Heart Disease: Increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

  • Diabetes: Poorly controlled blood sugar levels and complications.

  • Respiratory Diseases: Increased risk of respiratory infections.

  • Pregnancy Complications: Preterm birth and low birth weight.

Procedure Overview

1. Comprehensive Examination:

  • Gum Health Assessment: Our dental team will assess your gum health by measuring the depth of periodontal pockets and checking for signs of inflammation or infection.

  • Dental X-rays: If necessary, X-rays may be taken to monitor bone health and detect any underlying issues.

2. Deep Cleaning:

  • Scaling: Removal of plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, especially targeting periodontal pockets.

  • Root Planing: Smoothing the root surfaces of the teeth to eliminate bacterial toxins and promote gum reattachment.

  • Professional Fluoride Treatment: Application of fluoride to strengthen teeth and protect against decay and sensitivity.

3. Antimicrobial Treatment:

  • Antimicrobial Agents: Application of antimicrobial agents to the periodontal pockets to reduce bacterial growth and infection.

4. Patient Education:

  • Oral Hygiene Instructions: Personalized guidance on maintaining effective oral hygiene at home, including proper brushing and flossing techniques.

  • Lifestyle Recommendations: Tips on dietary choices, smoking cessation, and other lifestyle factors that can influence periodontal health.

Who Needs Periodontal Maintenance?

Periodontal Maintenance is recommended for patients who have undergone treatment for:

  • Gingivitis: Early-stage gum disease characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

  • Periodontitis: Advanced gum disease with deeper periodontal pockets, gum recession, and potential bone loss.

Frequency of Visits

To effectively manage gum health and prevent disease recurrence, we typically recommend scheduling Periodontal Maintenance visits every three months. This frequency allows for timely intervention and ongoing support in maintaining healthy gums.

Post-Treatment Care

Maintaining good oral hygiene practices at home is essential for the success of your periodontal maintenance. This includes:

  • Regular Brushing and Flossing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.

  • Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Use an antimicrobial mouthwash as recommended to reduce bacterial growth.

  • Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet and avoid sugary foods and drinks that can contribute to plaque buildup.

  • Regular Dental Visits: Continue to schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to monitor your gum health and receive professional care.

Take proactive steps to protect your periodontal and overall health. Schedule your Periodontal Maintenance visit with Cosmetic & Laser Dental Spa of Richmond today. Our dedicated team is here to support you in maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile and improving your overall well-being.

Laser Periodontal Therapy

At The Cosmetic & Laser Dental Spa of Richmond, we leverage cutting-edge technology to provide effective and minimally invasive treatments for gum disease. Our Laser Periodontal Therapy is designed to precisely target and eliminate infected tissue, promoting healing and regeneration while ensuring your comfort and convenience.

What is Laser Periodontal Therapy?

Laser Periodontal Therapy uses advanced dental lasers to treat periodontal disease. The laser technology allows for precise removal of infected gum tissue and bacteria, promoting healing and regeneration of healthy tissue. This therapy is less invasive than traditional surgical methods, resulting in reduced discomfort and faster recovery times.

Benefits of Laser Periodontal Therapy

  • Minimally Invasive: Reduces the need for traditional surgical procedures.

  • Precise Targeting: Focuses on infected areas without affecting healthy tissue.

  • Reduced Discomfort: Minimizes pain and swelling compared to conventional surgery.

  • Faster Healing: Promotes quicker recovery and tissue regeneration.

  • Effective Bacterial Reduction: Efficiently eliminates bacteria and reduces inflammation.

Procedure Overview

1. Initial Examination:

  • Gum Health Assessment: Our dental team will evaluate the extent of periodontal disease using periodontal probes and X-rays to assess bone health and detect any underlying issues.

2. Laser Treatment:

  • Laser Application: A specialized dental laser is used to precisely remove infected gum tissue and eliminate bacteria from periodontal pockets.

  • Bacterial Elimination: The laser energy also sterilizes the area, reducing the bacterial load and promoting a healthier environment for gum healing.

  • Professional Fluoride Treatment: Fluoride may be applied during the visit to strengthen teeth and protect against decay and sensitivity.

3. Gum Reattachment:

  • Stimulating Tissue Regeneration: The laser promotes the reattachment of gums to the teeth and encourages the growth of new, healthy tissue.

4. Post-Treatment Care:

  • Oral Hygiene Instructions: You will receive personalized guidance on maintaining effective oral hygiene at home, including proper brushing and flossing techniques.

  • Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Recommendations for using an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacterial growth.

  • Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up visits to monitor your progress and ensure optimal healing.

Understanding the Link Between Periodontal Disease and Serious Health Issues

Untreated periodontal disease not only affects your oral health but can also have significant implications for your overall health. Research has established a strong connection between gum disease and various systemic health conditions, including:

  • Heart Disease: The bacteria and inflammation associated with periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream, contributing to the development of heart disease and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

  • Diabetes: Periodontal disease can make it more challenging to control blood sugar levels, exacerbating the complications of diabetes.

  • Respiratory Diseases: Inhalation of bacteria from the mouth can lead to respiratory infections and worsen conditions such as pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

  • Pregnancy Complications: Pregnant women with periodontal disease are at a higher risk of preterm birth and delivering low birth weight babies.

  • Other Systemic Conditions: Emerging research also suggests links between periodontal disease and conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, certain cancers, and Alzheimer's disease.

Who Can Benefit from Laser Periodontal Therapy?

Laser Periodontal Therapy is ideal for patients with varying stages of periodontal disease, from mild gingivitis to more advanced periodontitis. It is particularly beneficial for those seeking a less invasive and more comfortable treatment option.

Post-Treatment Care

Maintaining good oral hygiene practices is essential for the success of your laser periodontal therapy. This includes:

  • Regular Brushing and Flossing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.

  • Using Antimicrobial Mouthwash: As recommended, use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacterial growth.

  • Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet and avoid sugary foods and drinks that can contribute to plaque buildup.

  • Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to monitor your gum health and receive professional care.

Protect your gum health and overall well-being with Laser Periodontal Therapy. Contact The Cosmetic & Laser Dental Spa of Richmond today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how this advanced treatment can benefit you. Our dedicated team is here to support you in achieving a healthier smile and improving your overall health.

Our hygienist, Carolyn, is AMAZING! She is so patient with my six-year-old

and keeps us both entertained the whole time!

- Ashley W.

Learn More About Cosmetic, Restorative, and Family Dentist

Located in Manakin-Sabot, VA, The Cosmetic & Laser Dental Spa of Richmond specializes in restorative dentistry and preventative dentistry. Emergency services available. We work directly with insurance and most PPOs. Same-day appointments available. Call today.

VISIT US

27 Briggs Drive

Manakin-Sabot, VA 23103

Contact Us

Sarah C. Wilmer DDS, PLLC

(804) 784-2386

Business Hours

Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Wednesday 8:00 - 5:00 PM

Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Friday - By Special Appointment Only

Saturday & Sunday - Closed

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