Gum Disease Treatment

New Patients

Same Day Appointments

Reviews

96% Customer Satisfaction

Exceptional dentistry in a spa-like environment since 1985..

Technology

We invest in industry leading technology to ensure your comfort and the highest quality of diagnostics and care.

Patient Comfort

We have a modern office, comfortable seats, and gentle team members to ensure your comfort.

Exceptional Care

We’ve been a top dentist in Las Vegas for over 2 decades and have helped generations of families achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.

No Judgement Dentistry

We are kind, compassionate, and understanding. We focus on patient education and providing treatment plan options.

Gum disease treatment focuses on removing harmful bacteria and restoring healthy gum tissue through professional cleaning procedures and ongoing maintenance. General dentistry services provide comprehensive care to address all stages of periodontal disease, from early gingivitis to advanced periodontitis.

Early intervention is crucial for successful gum disease treatment. When plaque and tartar accumulate along the gum line, they create an environment where bacteria thrive, leading to inflammation and infection. Professional treatment removes these irritants and allows your gums to heal naturally.

Gum Disease Treatment Las Vegas

Taking care of your gums is an essential part of your oral hygiene. Gum care starts at home, with a daily hygiene routine that includes flossing to clean below the gum line. Your dentist and hygienist will monitor the health of your gums and can recommend the best gum disease treatment options if they detect signs of inflammation or periodontal (gum) disease.

Understanding Gum Disease Stages

Gum disease progresses through distinct stages, each requiring different treatment approaches. Gingivitis, the earliest stage, causes red, swollen, and bleeding gums during brushing or flossing. At this point, professional cleaning and improved home care can reverse the condition completely.

As the disease advances to periodontitis, the infection spreads below the gum line, creating pockets between teeth and gums. The bacteria in these pockets produce toxins that break down the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. Chronic periodontitis affects 47.2% of adults over 30 in the United States, making early detection and treatment essential.

Advanced periodontitis represents the most severe stage, where significant bone loss occurs, and teeth may become loose or require extraction. However, even at this stage, proper treatment can halt disease progression and preserve remaining teeth.

Professional Treatment Options

Scaling and root planing serve as the foundation of non-surgical gum disease treatment. This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and roots below the gum line. The scaling portion eliminates bacterial deposits, while root planing smooths rough root surfaces to prevent future bacterial accumulation.

Local anesthesia ensures comfort during the procedure, and treatment is typically completed over multiple appointments to thoroughly address all affected areas. Most patients experience significant improvement in gum health within weeks of treatment.

Antibiotic therapy may supplement mechanical cleaning in cases where bacterial infection persists. Topical antibiotics placed directly into gum pockets target specific bacteria, while oral antibiotics address widespread infection. Your dentist will determine the most appropriate antibiotic approach based on your specific condition.

Advanced cases may require surgical intervention. Flap surgery allows direct access to infected root surfaces for thorough cleaning and tissue regeneration. Periodontal services include these specialized procedures when conservative treatment proves insufficient.

Home Care and Prevention

Effective home care prevents gum disease recurrence and maintains treatment results. Proper brushing technique using a soft-bristled toothbrush removes plaque without irritating healing gum tissue. Electric toothbrushes often provide superior plaque removal compared to manual brushing.

Daily flossing remains essential for removing bacteria between teeth where brushes cannot reach. Water flossers offer an alternative for patients who find traditional flossing difficult, though they should supplement rather than replace regular floss.

Antimicrobial mouth rinses reduce bacterial populations and support healing after professional treatment. Your dental team will recommend specific products based on your individual needs and treatment response.

What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?

Gum disease is a progressive disease that breaks down the gum tissue and bone surrounding your teeth. It is caused by bacteria in plaque and dental calculus. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and contribute to other systemic health problems, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and dementia.

According to the Canadian Dental Association, 7 in 10 adults will experience gum disease in their lifetime. The good news is gum disease is preventable and can be reversed if it’s caught early enough.

If it’s been more than 6 months since your last professional cleaning, request an appointment today!

Maintenance and Follow-up Care

Regular maintenance appointments prevent treated gum disease from returning. Professional cleanings every three to four months remove bacterial accumulations before they cause renewed inflammation. These visits also allow your dental team to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.

Dental cleanings and exams form the cornerstone of ongoing periodontal health. During these appointments, your hygienist will measure pocket depths, assess gum tissue health, and provide personalized recommendations for home care improvements.

Some patients benefit from more frequent maintenance visits, particularly during the initial healing phase. Your dental team will establish an appropriate schedule based on your treatment response and risk factors for disease recurrence.

Risk Factors and Lifestyle Considerations

Certain factors increase your susceptibility to gum disease and may require modified treatment approaches. Smoking significantly impairs healing and treatment success rates, making tobacco cessation a priority for optimal outcomes. Diabetes affects immune system function and wound healing, requiring coordinated care with your physician.

Stress, poor nutrition, and medications may also impact gum health. Discussing these factors with your dental team helps design a treatment plan that addresses all contributing elements.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, or other life stages may increase gum sensitivity and require adjusted maintenance schedules. Open communication about health changes ensures your treatment remains effective over time.

No Insurance? We’ve Got You Covered

While we accept many dental insurance plans, you can still see an emergency dentist even if you have no insurance.

At Red Rock Dental, we make urgent care accessible — You can pay out of pocket with cash or credit card.

Treatment Success and Long-term Outcomes

Early-stage gum disease responds exceptionalally well to professional treatment and improved home care. Most patients see notable improvement within weeks, with complete resolution of gingivitis possible when caught early.

More advanced cases require patience and commitment to achieve optimal results. While bone loss from periodontitis cannot be reversed, proper treatment halts disease progression and maintains remaining tooth support structures.

Success depends largely on patient compliance with home care recommendations and maintenance appointments. Patients who follow prescribed care protocols typically maintain stable periodontal health for years following initial treatment. Consistent home care, lifestyle modifications, and regular professional maintenance create the foundation for long-term periodontal health and overall oral wellness.

Emergency dental care is available when gum disease symptoms abruptly worsen or cause severe discomfort. Don’t hesitate to contact our office if you experience persistent pain, swelling, or other concerning symptoms between regular appointments.

Schedule an Appointment Today to Address Your Gum Health Concerns

Don’t wait until gum disease advances. Early intervention provides the best outcomes and often requires less invasive treatment. If you’ve noticed any warning signs or haven’t had a dental examination recently, contact our office today to schedule an evaluation.

Dr. McCaffrey and our team are committed to helping you get and maintain optimal gum health. We’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your needs, timeline, and budget.

Meet The Team

We provide gentle and compassionate care in a friendly environment. We always focus on evidence based diagnosis, patient education, and working with you to build a treatment plan that aligns with your oral health goals.

Insurance & Pricing

1. Competitive Pricing

All of our services are priced competitively so that exceptional dentistry can be accessible to all.

2. Covered By Most Insurance Plans

Many of our services are fully or partially covered by popular insurance plans. We’re happy to help you with your claim.

3. No Insurance, No Problem

Many of our patients pay out of pocket with cash, credit card, debit etc. We also offer an in-house insurance plan.

We Pinky Promise

Our mission is simple – give our patients the best dental experience they’ve ever had.

You Decide

We promise to show you what we see with imaging, educate you on your options, and empower you to make the best decisions for yourself.

Honest, Evidence Based Care

We promise to always show you what we see with imaging and never push unnecessary treatments on you.

On Time Visits

We promise to respect your time and do everything we can to see you within a few minutes of your appointment.

Pricing Transparency

We promise to be transparent about pricing and insurance coverage.

Best in Class

We promise to build a world class dental team. Many of our team members have been with us for over a decade!

Friendly & Professional

Our team promises to always be respectful, polite, and professional.

Pain Free

We promise to do everything we can to minimize pain and make you feel comfortable.

Never Ending Improvement

We promise to constantly invest time and money into technology and continuing education to make sure our patients get the best care possible.

Reviews

Happy Patients

Thank you to all of our patients who have taken the time to write to us a review.

A Dental Experience Unlike Anything You've Ever Experienced

We’re Insanely Gentle

We do everything we can to make sure your visit is as comfortable as possible. We want you to love coming to the dentist in Las Vegas.

Accepting New Patients

We warmly welcome new patients to our office and do our best to accommodate short notice appointments.

Insurance Accepted

Most of our procedures are covered by insurance. Our office will help you submit your insurance claim. Give us a call to learn more.

Award Winning Care

We have over 1000 5 star reviews and have been helping Las Vegasites achieve a beautiful, healthy smile for over 30 years.

Industry Leading Technology

We invest in the latest and greatest technology for improved comfort and diagnostics.

Emergency Visits

We accept dental emergencies and make every effort to schedule you in right away.

About Us

Discover Who We Are

Meet Our Dentist

Highly Skilled & Compassionate

About Our Practice

Accepting New Patients

Additional Information

When you experience a dental emergency, it is important to follow the correct steps immediately to avoid permanent damage to your bite and smile.

Early Signs of Gum Disease (Gingivitis)

Signs of early gum disease, or gingivitis, include red, swollen gums. Your gums may also be tender or bleeding. It’s important to note that gum disease is often a silent disease – many people don’t notice any symptoms until it’s in its more advanced stages.

Symptoms of periodontal (gum) disease:

  • Red, swollen or sore gums
  • Receding gums
  • Bad breath
  • Pain when chewing
  • Loose or sensitive teeth

You can treat gingivitis at home by eating a healthy diet, brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily. This will help reduce harmful bacteria in your mouth and give your gums a chance to recover.

Although you can brush away plaque, calculus (hardened plaque) can only be removed by your dental hygienist. Be sure to keep up with regular professional dental cleanings to keep hard-to-reach areas free of bacteria. Most people should get their teeth professionally cleaned at least every six months. Your hygienist may recommend more frequent cleanings depending on the condition of your teeth and gums.

If it’s been more than 6 months since your last professional cleaning, request an appointment today!

What to Expect During Your Emergency Dental Visit

When you arrive at our emergency dental clinic in Las Vegas, you can expect:

Immediate Attention

We prioritize emergency cases to minimize your wait time.

Comprehensive Exam

Our dentists will conduct a thorough examination, including digital X-rays if necessary, to diagnose the issue accurately.

Personalized Treatment Plan

We will explain your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment options to address your dental emergency.

Immediate Relief

Our primary goal is to alleviate your pain and address the immediate concern.

Follow-up Care

We will schedule any necessary follow-up appointments to ensure your complete recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

Common symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, and loose or sensitive teeth.

How is gum disease diagnosed?

Gum disease is diagnosed through a dental examination, which includes checking your gums for signs of inflammation, measuring the depth of pockets around your teeth, and taking dental X-rays to assess bone loss.

Is gum disease reversible?

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional treatment. However, periodontitis, the advanced stage, can only be managed to prevent further damage.

What treatments are available for gum disease?

Treatments for gum disease include professional dental cleanings, scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotics, and surgical procedures such as flap surgery, bone grafts, and tissue grafts.

Scroll to Top

Dr. Alan McCaffrey

Dentist / Owner

Dr. McCaffrey is passionate about dentistry and is constantly pursuing continuing education to provide his patients with the quality care they deserve. He is proponent of minimally invasive techniques and his goal is to promote oral health with a conservative approach. He is a member of the Academy of Supra-gingival Healthy Dentistry, Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, American Dental Association, Nevada Dental Association and Southern Nevada Dental Society. He devotes over 100 hours each year attending continuing education workshops with many of the leading dental clinicians throughout the United States.

Dr. McCaffrey was raised in Las Vegas and graduated from Bonanza High School. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Nevada, Reno and received his Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry. During that time Dr. McCaffrey met his wife Civia and they married in July of 2002. He went on to complete his dental training at the Temple University School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. Dr. McCaffrey enjoys many outdoor activities such as snowboarding, wakeboarding, and mountain biking and enjoys spending the rest of his free time with his wife and children Maddox, Elliana, and Preston.

Dr. Booker

Dentist

Dr. Thomas Booker was born in England but relocated to the United States in 2000. After spending a couple years in Houston, Texas he relocated to Las Vegas where he has been ever since. He attended UNLV where he earned his undergraduate degree in Biology. He continued his education at UNLV’s School of Dental Medicine. In his free time he enjoys making music and even plays drums in a band! He prefers to take a conservative approach to dentistry and is highly quality driven. He is also a member of the Find-a-Dentist®

Jesus

Dental Assistant

Jesus has been in dentistry since 2015. He is always eager to learn new and innovative techniques to aid our doctors and provide an exceptionalal patient experience. He was born in Sacramento, CA and grew up playing baseball all the way through high school. Jesus is an avid sports fan with his favorite teams being the San Francisco 49er’s, San Francisco Giants, and Sacramento Kings.

 

Sammy

Dental Assistant

Sammy is originally from Bullhead City, Arizona. She joined our team as a hygiene assistant at the beginning of this year. She is currently expanding her skills by learning the ropes of our front office staff. With a passion for the outdoors, Sammy loves exploring nature and is always looking forward to her trips back home to visit friends and family. We’re excited to have her on board and can’t wait to see all the great things she’ll accomplish!

Iris

Treatment Coordinator

A proud Las Vegas native, Iris has dedicated the past 10 years to building her career in dentistry as a skilled and compassionate treatment coordinator. With a deep commitment to helping others, she takes pride in creating a positive experience for patients while navigating the complexities of their dental care. Outside of work, you’ll often find her exploring nature—whether it’s hiking local trails or soaking up the sun at the beach. She treasures quality time with my family and friends, and her two dogs are never far behind. Life is about balance, connection, and doing what you love and I’m grateful every day to live that out.

Angela

Patient Scheduler

Angela was born and raised here in Las Vegas, NV. She has been a patient scheduler for 3 years however, she is new to the dental field. She strives to further her education to assist her patients in the best way possible. Angela is also a licensed esthetician who enjoys spending her free time reading, spending time with family, and playing with her two dogs.

Cintia

Dental Assistant

Originally from Bell, California, Cintia is a dedicated dental assistant with four years of experience in the dental industry. You can often find her assisting our doctors and hygienists, ensuring that our patients receive the best care possible. Outside of work, Cintia enjoys cooking and cherishing quality time with her family. Her warm personality and commitment to patient care make her a valuable member of our team!

Evee

Office Manager

Evee, originally hailing from the sunny shores of Southern California, is a passionate coffee lover who believes that a great cup of coffee can brighten anyone’s day. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for organization, Evee oversees both the dental and vision departments at our practice, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and efficiently.
Always willing to lend a hand, Evee fosters a collaborative environment where her colleagues feel supported and empowered. She takes pride in her work and is committed to providing the best possible experience for everyone who walks through our doors.
Outside of her professional life, Evee is a talented baker who finds joy in creating everything from elaborate themed cakes to delightful sweet treats. She enjoys sharing her baked goods with friends and family.

Stephanie

Dental Hygienist

Stephanie is the newest addition to our practice, bringing with her a wealth of experience in dental hygiene. She moved to Las Vegas with her family in 2021, but has been dedicated to the dental field since 2010, starting her journey as an assistant and spending several years in pediatrics. Since becoming a dental hygienist in 2018, Stephanie has made it her mission to ensure that every patient feels truly cared for in her chair. Her top priorities are creating positive patient experiences, maintaining professionalism, and building strong rapport with those she serves. When she’s not at the office, Stephanie enjoys cooking, baking, and attending Trufusion classes to stay active and energized.

Brooklyn

Dental Hygienist

Brooklyn has been a registered dental hygienist since 2021. She attended Louisiana State University prior to completing her B.S. in Dental Hygiene at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. She recently moved to Las Vegas with her husband and their dog. She was born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she developed a love for Cajun food, Mardi Gras, and LSU football. She is an avid reader, and is passionate about outdoor exploration and interior design.