Periodontal Care

Periodontal care is a critical aspect of dental health that focuses on maintaining and improving the health of the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. The periodontal tissues, including the gums, bone, and ligaments, play a vital role in holding the teeth in place and supporting their overall function. When these tissues become damaged or infected, it can lead to serious oral health problems such as gum disease, gum recession, or even tooth loss. Proper periodontal care involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a variety of gum-related issues to ensure long-term oral health and comfort.

Gum disease, one of the most common periodontal conditions, is often caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar along the gum line, leading to inflammation and infection. If left untreated, it can progress from gingivitis (a mild form of gum disease) to periodontitis, which can cause irreversible damage to the gums, bone, and teeth. Periodontal care not only helps to address these issues but also plays a preventive role in protecting the gums from further damage. Treatments range from routine cleanings and non-surgical therapies to more advanced procedures when necessary, all aimed at restoring gum health and preventing future complications.

Periodontal Services

Gum Disease Prevention and Treatment
Gum disease is a progressive condition that affects many individuals and often starts with gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. If not addressed, it can lead to more severe forms of gum disease, such as periodontitis, which can damage the bone and tissues that support the teeth. Preventive treatments such as professional cleanings, regular check-ups, and proper oral hygiene can effectively manage and reverse early stages of gum disease. For more advanced stages, treatments may include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotic treatments, or surgical procedures if necessary to restore gum health.

Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are non-surgical deep cleaning procedures designed to treat gum disease by removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gum line. Scaling involves scraping away the plaque and tartar buildup from the tooth surfaces, while root planing smooths the tooth roots to help the gums reattach and heal. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with moderate to advanced gum disease. It helps prevent further infection, promotes healing, and may eliminate the need for more invasive treatments.

Gum Recession Treatment
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue wears away, exposing the tooth roots. This condition can lead to tooth sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and aesthetic concerns. Treatment options for gum recession include procedures like gum grafting, which involves taking tissue from another area of the mouth and grafting it onto the affected area to restore gum coverage. These treatments help protect the tooth roots, reduce sensitivity, and improve the appearance of the smile. Early intervention is important to prevent further gum recession and protect overall oral health.

Periodontal Maintenance
After initial treatment for gum disease, ongoing periodontal maintenance is essential to keep the gums healthy and prevent future issues. This involves regular cleanings and check-ups that are more frequent than routine dental visits. During maintenance visits, the dentist or hygienist will monitor the health of the gums, check for signs of infection or inflammation, and perform deep cleanings as needed. Periodontal maintenance ensures that any remaining bacteria or plaque is removed, helping to avoid the recurrence of gum disease and maintain the results of previous treatments.

Laser Periodontal Therapy
Laser periodontal therapy is an advanced treatment option for managing gum disease. This minimally invasive procedure uses a laser to remove infected tissue and bacteria from the gums without the need for scalpels or stitches. Laser therapy can be used for procedures such as gum reshaping, pocket reduction, and the treatment of infected areas around the teeth. The benefits of laser therapy include faster healing times, reduced discomfort, and enhanced precision. It is especially effective in treating patients who may be fearful of traditional surgical treatments.

Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a procedure used to restore bone that has been lost due to advanced gum disease or injury. If the bone supporting the teeth has deteriorated, bone grafts can help rebuild the structure, making it possible to support dental implants or preserve remaining teeth. The grafting material can come from the patient’s own bone, a donor, or synthetic material. Bone grafting is often necessary for patients who have suffered significant bone loss and need further periodontal intervention to maintain their oral health and function.

Soft Tissue Grafting
Soft tissue grafting is a surgical procedure used to address receding gums by restoring lost tissue. In this procedure, tissue is taken from another part of the mouth (usually the roof of the mouth) and grafted onto the areas where the gum tissue has receded. This treatment helps to improve the appearance of the gums, reduce sensitivity, and protect the exposed tooth roots. Soft tissue grafting is particularly beneficial for patients who experience gum recession that exposes the roots of their teeth, causing discomfort or increasing the risk of decay.

Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure used to reshape the gum and bone tissue around a tooth. This procedure is typically performed when a tooth is decayed or broken below the gum line, and more of the tooth needs to be exposed to place a crown or filling. Crown lengthening may also be performed for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of a “gummy smile.” This treatment allows for better access to the tooth and provides a more aesthetically pleasing result.

Periodontal care is essential for maintaining the health of the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. Gum disease, gum recession, and other periodontal issues can lead to serious complications if not addressed, including tooth loss and systemic health problems. By offering a range of treatments, such as gum disease prevention, scaling and root planing, gum recession treatment, and advanced therapies like laser periodontal therapy, periodontal care ensures that patients can maintain healthy gums throughout their lives. Regular dental visits, early detection, and timely intervention are key to preventing severe periodontal conditions and achieving optimal oral health. Through proper care and treatment, individuals can enjoy healthier gums, improved dental function, and enhanced overall well-being.