Periodontics
The prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease.
What is Periodontics?
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. They also specialize in the placement of dental implants. Gum disease, as well as dental implant treatments are the most common reasons to see a periodontist, and you can benefit from their skill in other areas too, like a tooth extraction, which many periodontists refer to as tooth removal, bone grafting for repairing bone loss after a tooths removal, and soft tissue grafting and tissue sculpting.
Periodontal Therapy Procedures
A dentist or periodontist will perform a periodontal screening on the patient when they come in for gum problems. The goal is to evaluate their status of their periodontal health. During this dental exam, the dentist checks gum pockets if there are bleeding and dental plaque deposits. They’ll check how healthy the gums look and what symptoms they might have such as color change or swelling, depending on what’s going on with them! The medical history of the patient can be important data during assessment too, especially if it could help explain any symptoms that appear, which may not otherwise make sense. Some periodontal treatment procedures preformed are:
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a standard in tooth replacement, because they fit, feel and even function just like a natural tooth. It is the best, long lasting option for a replacement.
Crown Lengthening Surgery
This is an oral surgery treatment that involves removing excess gum tissue and possibly some bone, around the upper teeth to make them appear longer.
Gum Grafting
If you or your dentist notices gum recession, it is possible you may need a gum graft, which involves carefully placing small amounts of new tissue in an area where little or no gum tissue currently exists.
Periodontal Plastic Surgery
Periodontal plastic surgery procedures shape your jaw, teeth as well as your gums. This is usually done to correct or prevent traumatic or plaque disease-induced issues of alveolar, bone, gingiva and mucosa.
Scaling and Root Planing
When your dentist removes all the plaque and tartar above and below your gumline, being sure to clean all the way down to the bottom of the pocket.
Your Role in Periodontal Health
The best things to do to prevent periodontics, brush your teeth twice a day or better yet, after every meal or snack, use a soft toothbrush and be sure to replace it at least every three months. Also consider using an electric toothbrush, which may do a better job at removing tartar and plaque on your teeth. Floss daily! We’ve all heard flossing is just as important as brushing. You can also try using a mouth rinse, which will help remove additional plaque left in between your teeth. Remember to schedule your regular professional cleanings and lastly, quit smoking or chewing tobacco. This will significantly reduce developing problems in your mouth, as well as your body.
Get In Touch With Our Office
Whenever you have a question, concern or to simply request an appointment, we’re always here for you. If you are ever experiencing a dental emergency, please call our office immediately.