Periodontal Care
Periodontal care focuses on maintaining the health of the gums and the supporting structures around the teeth. The gums play a vital role in overall oral health, providing a foundation for strong, healthy teeth. Periodontal care includes preventive and therapeutic treatments designed to address gum-related conditions, ensuring that the tissues supporting the teeth remain in optimal condition. This type of care is essential for preventing and managing gum disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and other oral health complications.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most common oral health issues and ranges from mild inflammation (gingivitis) to more severe conditions (periodontitis) that can damage the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. Periodontal treatments are tailored to the severity of the condition, emphasizing both immediate relief and long-term prevention. Regular periodontal care helps preserve the health of your gums, protect your teeth, and promote overall wellness, as untreated gum disease has been linked to systemic health issues such as heart disease and diabetes.
Key Services of Periodontal Care
Scaling and Root Planing
Often referred to as deep cleaning, scaling and root planing are non-surgical treatments designed to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline. This procedure smooths the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to reattach and helping gums heal and reattach to the teeth.
Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal maintenance is a follow-up treatment performed after scaling and root planing or other periodontal therapies. It involves regular cleanings and monitoring to prevent the recurrence of gum disease and maintain gum health over the long term.
Gum Disease Diagnosis and Treatment
This service includes a thorough examination to identify gum disease, assess its severity, and create a customized treatment plan. Treatments may involve non-surgical therapies or advanced surgical interventions, depending on the extent of the condition.
Laser Gum Therapy
Laser therapy is a minimally invasive treatment option for gum disease. It uses laser technology to remove diseased tissue and bacteria, promoting healing and reducing discomfort compared to traditional surgical methods.
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure used to restore receding gums, which can expose the roots of teeth and increase sensitivity. This treatment enhances gum health and improves the appearance of your smile.
Pocket Reduction Surgery
Pocket reduction surgery, also known as flap surgery, is performed to clean the areas around the tooth roots where gum tissue has pulled away. This procedure helps eliminate bacteria and reduce the depth of periodontal pockets, promoting healthier gums.
Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening is a procedure that reshapes the gum tissue and bone to expose more of the tooth’s surface. This treatment is often used to prepare for restorative dental work or improve the appearance of a gummy smile.
Bone Grafting and Regeneration
Bone grafting is a technique used to restore bone that has been lost due to advanced gum disease. It supports the stability of teeth and prepares the jaw for dental implants when necessary.
Periodontal care is an essential component of dental health, addressing both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the gums and surrounding tissues. By managing gum disease and maintaining healthy gums, periodontal treatments help protect your teeth, enhance your smile, and contribute to overall well-being.