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Periodontics

Periodontics

Precision Periodontics

The term “periodontics” refers to the dental specialty that pertains to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease that affects the gums and jawbone. The gum tissues serve to surround and support the teeth and the underlying jawbone anchors teeth firmly in place. Periodontists have completed several years of extra dental training and are concerned with maintaining the function, health and aesthetics of the jawbone and tissues.

Reasons for periodontal treatment

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition which begins with mild gum inflammation called gingivitis. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults living in the developed world, and should be taken very seriously. Periodontal disease (often called gum disease) is typically signified by red, swollen, painful, or bleeding gums, but in some cases has no noticeable symptoms. Periodontal disease generally begins when the bacteria living in plaque cause an infection in the surrounding tissues of the teeth, causing them to become irritated and painful. Eventually, this infection will; cause the jawbone to recede and the tooth to become loose.
There are several reasons why periodontal treatment may be necessary:
  • Moderate/advanced gum disease – This occurs when the gums are bleeding, swollen or red around most teeth and the jawbone has begun to recede.
  • Localized gum recession – The infection which propagates moderate or advanced gum disease often begins in one area. Gum recession may also be caused due to over brushing with a hard bristle brush, or due to a tooth that is not positioned properly. Immediate treatment is required to prevent further spreading.
  • Before crown lengthening – The periodontist may lengthen the crown of the tooth by removing surrounding soft tissue to provide more tooth exposure.
  • Ridge augmentation – This procedure, often called “recontouring” may be required to correct an uneven gum line. Before embarking on treatment, a periodontist needs to treat any bacterial infections and periodontitis.
In the case of mild/moderate periodontal problems, the focus of the periodontist will be on curing the underlying bacterial infection and then providing advice on the most appropriate home cleaning methods. Sometimes a deep scaling is needed to remove the bacterial plaque and calculus (tartar) from the teeth and tissues. Where periodontal disease is advanced and the jawbone has regressed significantly, more intensive cleaning may be recommended and loose teeth that cannot be saved will be removed. The periodontist is trained in all aspects of dental implant procedures, which can restore functionality to the mouth when teeth have been affected by periodontitis. Because periodontal disease is progressive, it is essential to remove the bacteria and calculus build up to halt the spread of the infection. Your dentist will be happy to advise you on effective cleaning methods and treatment options.
A periodontist is a dental specialist trained to treat gum disease, manage bone loss, and place dental implants.
You may need to see a periodontist if you have bleeding gums, gum recession, loose teeth, or advanced periodontal disease.
Antibiotics may be used alongside periodontal therapy to help control bacterial infection and reduce inflammation.
Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching teeth, which can damage teeth and strain the gums and jaw.
Crown lengthening reshapes excess gum and bone tissue to expose more of the tooth for restorative or cosmetic purposes.
These procedures restore damaged gum tissue and jawbone to improve oral health and tooth stability.
Gum grafting treats gum recession by covering exposed tooth roots and protecting them from further damage.
Gum recession occurs when gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing roots and increasing sensitivity and decay risk.
An oral cancer exam screens for abnormal tissue changes in the mouth for early detection and treatment.
A deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line to stop disease progression.
Pocket irrigation flushes bacteria and debris from deep gum pockets to help reduce infection.
This surgery reduces the depth of gum pockets, making them easier to clean and maintain.
A routine professional cleaning that removes plaque and tartar to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
These treatments help regenerate lost bone and gum tissue damaged by periodontal disease.
Ridge modification reshapes the jawbone after tooth loss to prepare for dental implants or restorations.
A procedure that removes an infected root of a multi-rooted tooth while preserving the remaining tooth structure.
Sinus augmentation adds bone to the upper jaw to support dental implants in the back teeth area.
Soft tissue grafting improves gum health and appearance by restoring lost or damaged gum tissue.

Frequently Asked Questions