PERIODONTICS

Protecting your smile from the ground up

Periodontics is like being a superhero for your gums! 

It's all about fighting off evil villains like gingivitis and periodontitis, which can attack your gums and supporting tissues. 

Our periodontist will come to the rescue and use their superpowers to treat and manage these diseases. 

So, sit back, relax, and let our periodontist save the day (and your gums)!

Stages of Periodontal Desease


Healthy
Gingivitis
Periodontitis
Advanced Periodontitis

Healthy

Gums are pink, firm, and do not bleed when brushed or flossed.

Gingivitis

Gums become inflamed and may bleed easily during brushing or flossing. 

This stage of gum disease is reversible with good oral hygiene and professional treatment.

Symptoms of gingivitis include:
- Bright red swollen gums
- Tender gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Halitosis (bad breath)

PERIODONTITIS

The supporting bone and fibers that hold the teeth in place begin to deteriorate, and pockets form between the teeth and gums. This stage of gum disease requires prompt treatment to prevent further damage.


Symptoms of Periodontitis include:

- Swollen, bright red gums
- Painful gums
- Bleeding gums
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Shift in bite

- Receding gums (tooth appears longer)

ADVANCED PERIODONTITIS

Teeth lose more support as the bone and fibers continue to deteriorate, and teeth may shift or loosen. In severe cases, teeth may need to be removed to prevent further damage to the surrounding tissue.

Symptoms of Advanced Periodontitis include:

- Severe bad breath (halitosis)
- Deepening pockets between teeth and gums
- Loose teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Pain while chewing
- Changes in bite

How are gingivitis and periodontitis treated?

Gingivitis

For gingivitis, the primary treatment is focused on removing the plaque and tartar buildup from teeth through a process called scaling. 

Patients should practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, and may use an antiseptic mouthwash after meals. 

In some cases, antibiotics or prescription mouthwash may also be prescribed to help fight the infection. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also important in preventing and treating gingivitis.

Periodontitis?

Periodontitis treatment involves removing hardened plaque or tartar under the gumline. Scaling and root planning are used for non-advanced cases, while surgery may be needed for advanced cases. 

For advanced forms of periodontitis, treatment may come in the forms of dental surgery.

Some of these surgeries include:

Flap Surgery

Your periodontist will have to make tiny incisions in your gums so that the roots are exposed. This allows the specialist to clean the areas more thoroughly.

Soft tissue grafts

As periodontitis may cause tissue loss, you may need to have some of that soft tissue loss addressed. Tissue from the roof of your mouth is grafted onto your gums, covering the exposed roots and preventing them from further infection.

Bone grafting

In order to prevent tooth loss, bone may have to be grafted (either your own or a donor’s) onto areas of the bone structure that are too weak to provide structure for the tooth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can periodontitis be prevented?

Yes, periodontitis can be largely prevented through good oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, using an antiseptic mouthwash, and visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

Is scaling painful?

Scaling may be uncomfortable, especially if your gums are swollen and sensitive. However, your dentist or periodontist will use local anesthesia to numb the area, so you shouldn't feel any pain during the procedure.

What is flap surgery?

Flap surgery is a periodontal procedure that involves making tiny incisions in the gums to expose the roots of the teeth. This allows the dentist or periodontist to clean the areas more thoroughly and remove any bacteria or tartar buildup.

How long does it take to recover from periodontal surgery?

The recovery time for periodontal surgery varies depending on the type of procedure you have undergone. In general, you can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding for the first few days after the surgery. Your dentist or periodontist will provide you with post-operative instructions and may prescribe pain medication to manage your discomfort. It's important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.

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