Periodontics

Periodontal disease, starting with mild gum inflammation known as gingivitis, is a serious condition that progresses over time. It’s a leading cause of tooth loss among adults in developed nations. While it often manifests as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, sometimes it shows no noticeable symptoms.

Initially, the bacteria in plaque infect the tissues surrounding the teeth, leading to irritation and pain. Left untreated, this infection can cause the jawbone to recede and teeth to loosen.

Periodontal treatment may become necessary for various reasons:

Moderate/advanced gum disease: Characterized by bleeding, swelling, or redness around most teeth and receding jawbone.

Localized gum recession: Often originating in one area, it can result from over brushing or misaligned teeth, requiring immediate attention to prevent further spread.

Before crown lengthening: Soft tissue removal may be needed to expose more of the tooth’s crown.

Ridge augmentation: Corrects uneven gum lines but requires prior treatment of infections and periodontitis.

For mild/moderate periodontal issues, the focus is on curing bacterial infections and advising on effective home cleaning methods. Deep scaling may be necessary to remove plaque and tartar, while advanced cases might require intensive cleaning and extraction of irreparable teeth.

Periodontists are trained in dental implant procedures to restore mouth functionality after periodontitis.

Given its progressive nature, removing bacteria and calculus buildup is crucial to halting infection spread. Your dentist can offer guidance on effective cleaning methods and treatment options.