Periodontal Treatment
What Is Periodontal Treatment?
Periodontal treatment involves specialized procedures to prevent, diagnose, and treat periodontal disease, or gum disease, which affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Key components include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning below the gumline), medications to control infection, and surgical treatments like flap surgery and bone or tissue grafts. Regular maintenance and check-ups are crucial to prevent recurrence. The goal is to halt disease progression, restore damaged tissues, and improve overall oral health.
What types of periodontal treatments are available?
Periodontal treatments include scaling, root planing, medications, and surgeries like flap surgery and grafts. These methods address gum disease by removing plaque and tartar, controlling infection, and restoring damaged tissues for improved oral health.
Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing) During this treatment, our skilled dental hygienists will carefully remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the surfaces of your teeth and roots, both above and below the gumline. This helps to eliminate the source of infection and promote gum healing.
Pocket Reduction Surgery: In more advanced cases of gum disease, where pockets of bacteria have formed deep within the gums, surgical intervention may be necessary to reduce pocket depths and restore gum health. Our doctors and team perform pocket reduction surgery to access and clean these deep pockets, removing infected tissue and promoting gum reattachment to the teeth, leaving you and your smile healthier.
Gum Grafting: For patients experiencing gum recession due to gum disease or other factors, gum grafting may be recommended to restore lost gum tissue and protect the roots of the teeth. During this procedure, tissue from another area of the mouth or a donor source is grafted onto the receded gums, helping to improve the aesthetics of your smile and prevent further gum recession.
What are the signs that I need periodontal treatment?
Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits can increase the risk of gum disease by allowing plaque and tartar to accumulate on the teeth and gums.
Smoking and Tobacco Use: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for gum disease, as it weakens the immune system and impairs blood flow to the gums, making it harder for the body to fight off infection.
Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to developing gum disease, making regular dental check-ups and cleanings even more crucial for maintaining oral health.
Health Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy or menopause), can increase the risk of gum disease and may require more frequent periodontal evaluations and treatments.
Age and Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can affect gum health and increase the risk of developing gum disease, making regular dental care essential during these life stages.
Research has linked gum disease to an increased risk of systemic health problems, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By treating gum disease, you not only protect your oral health but also reduce your risk of developing these serious health conditions.
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Contact us today to schedule a periodontal evaluation and take proactive steps to protect your oral health and overall well-being.