Periodontal treatment is a dental specialty focused on the gum tissues and jawbone that hold your teeth in place. Periodontists have completed several years of extra training to preserve the health, function and aesthetics of these structures.
Plaque continuously forms on your teeth and, if not removed daily by brushing and flossing, hardens into calculus (tartar). Bacteria in plaque releases toxins that damage your gum tissue and bone.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are non-surgical procedures that remove the etiologic agents of periodontal therapy Opelousas disease, which include dental plaque and tartar (calculus). These measures work very well in controlling gingivitis and mild to moderate periodontitis.
When left untreated, plaque bacteria irritate and inflame the gum tissue; this results in the formation of pockets between teeth and the gums that harbor additional bacteria. Eventually the bacterial attack destroys the supporting bone and ligaments of the tooth which leads to loosening and eventual tooth loss.
These non-invasive procedures, which are sometimes referred to as deep cleaning, can be performed with local anesthesia in our office. After the procedure, patients may experience some discomfort and sensitivity; this can be reduced with proper oral hygiene and over-the-counter pain relievers. It is important to brush and floss the areas treated to ensure food and bacteria do not enter the periodontal pocket; this, along with proper daily care and cessation of smoking, will help promote healing.
Periodontal Maintenance Therapy
There are many different types of therapy available, from physical to cognitive behavioral. Periodontal maintenance therapy is a specific treatment for gum disease, focusing on keeping the disease under control and preventing it from progressing to more advanced stages.
Persistent bad breath is often caused by bacteria hiding in gum pockets, either below or above the gum line. Regular professional cleaning eliminates these bacteria, halting the progression of gum disease and preventing tooth loss.
Unlike a routine dental cleaning, which focuses on surface-level plaque and tartar removal, periodontal maintenance therapy is designed to treat the deeper pockets that form with gum disease. During these appointments, the hygienist removes tartar from above and below the gum line on each tooth, ensuring that the bacteria that cause gum disease are not allowed to hide and multiply. Medications and special rinses may also be prescribed. Periodontal maintenance visits are recommended every three to four months following a scaling and root planing (SRP) procedure.
Periodontal Surgery
Periodontal surgery, also known as gum surgery, is a specialized dental procedure that preserves tooth and tissue health. It eliminates bacteria and disease-causing plaque that have accumulated under the gums, reduces deep pockets where teeth are exposed to food and other debris, and promotes gum tissue reattachment.
In some cases, periodontists may use regenerative procedures that encourage bone and tissue growth to repair damage caused by the progression of periodontal therapy Opelousas disease. This includes grafting, membranes, and tissue-stimulating proteins.
During gum graft surgery, the periodontist removes tissue from the roof of your mouth or another source to cover areas of exposed root surface. This helps prevent root exposure, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and improve the aesthetics of your smile. After gum graft surgery, you must follow your periodontist’s instructions for proper brushing and flossing to avoid damaging the surgical area. It is normal to experience some bleeding, swelling and discomfort after the procedure. These side effects usually subside within one week.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are designed to replace missing teeth. A titanium post is implanted into the jaw bone, where it fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, mimicking the natural relationship between a tooth root and a tooth. After the implant heals, a connector called an abutment is fabricated to house a permanent crown. This crown is custom-made to match your other teeth for a seamless smile.
Risk factors for gum disease include a genetic predisposition, poor oral hygiene habits, smoking and tobacco use, systemic conditions such as diabetes and pregnancy, certain medications including steroids and oral contraceptives, aging, and a poor diet. A periodontist can help patients prevent and treat gum disease through proper home care, regular hygiene visits, and specialized cleaning procedures. A dental hygienist can teach patients proper flossing and brushing techniques to remove plaque and tartar from deep pockets. The periodontist can also restore teeth that have been lost to periodontitis through a variety of surgical and non-surgical procedures.