Periodontics is a dental specialty focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal disease, which affects the gums and jawbone. The gums support the teeth, while the jawbone holds them in place. Periodontists undergo additional training to ensure the proper function, health, and aesthetics of the jawbone and tissues.
There are various reasons why periodontal treatment may be necessary:
Moderate/advanced gum disease: This condition is characterized by bleeding, swollen, or red gums around most teeth, accompanied by jawbone recession.
Localized gum recession: Gum infection often starts in one area, leading to gum recession. Factors like aggressive brushing or misaligned teeth can also cause it. Immediate treatment is required to prevent further spread.
Crown lengthening: Periodontists may remove surrounding soft tissue to expose more of the tooth's crown, commonly done before other dental procedures.
Ridge augmentation: This procedure, known as "recontouring," corrects an uneven gum line. Prior to treatment, any bacterial infections and periodontitis must be addressed by the periodontist.
For mild to moderate periodontal issues, the periodontist's primary focus is on treating the underlying bacterial infection and providing guidance on proper home cleaning methods.
In some cases, a deep scaling procedure may be necessary to remove bacterial plaque and calculus (tartar) from the teeth and tissues. If periodontal disease has progressed significantly and caused significant jawbone recession, more extensive cleaning may be recommended. In cases where teeth cannot be saved, loose teeth may need to be extracted.
Periodontists are skilled in dental implant procedures, which can restore oral function in cases where teeth have been affected by periodontitis.
Since periodontal disease is a progressive condition, it is crucial to remove bacteria and calculus buildup to stop the infection from spreading. Your dentist can provide guidance on effective cleaning methods and discuss treatment options with you.