Periodontal Disease – Prevention and Treatment

Our periodontist specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. We are also able to perform dental implants when necessary. We have extensive training and experience, we are experts when it comes to treating oral inflammation and gum disease. We use the latest techniques and treatments available to make your experience as comfortable and fast as possible. You can also inquire about our cosmetic periodontal procedures. 

We are able to treat severe periodontal cases, like those who suffer from progressed gum disease. Our wide range of treatments include scaling and root planing. This is where we clean the infected surface of a root, also known as roof surface debridement. Damaged tissue is also carefully removed. If you have damaged dental implants, we can repair them. Once repaired, we make sure to continue scheduled checkups and maintain the condition of your implants. 

When you come in to see us, there are a few things you can expect during your visit. We will always begin by reviewing your medical and dental history. It is okay if you haven’t had dental services for some time, the important thing is to come in and get started. Periodontal care can be affected by medications. If you are on medications for diabetes, heart disease, or pregnancy, we will need to know. This helps us determine the most effective treatment options for you. We will examine your teeth, gums, and jaw. This includes taking measurements of spaces between your teeth and gums, which we refer to as periodontal pockets. X-rays are also taken to determine the health of the bones in your jaw that we cannot see below the gum line. Every part of the examination is important in treating and maintaining your oral health. 

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease takes hold when toxins that originate in plaque begin to attack the soft tissues surrounding your teeth. This bacteria settles into your gums and spreads rapidly. This results in a bacteria infection. Unless it is treated, the infection will continue to spread deeper and cause inflammation and irritation between your teeth and gums. Your body actually takes actions to destroy the infected tissue as a defense mechanism, which is why your gums appear to recede further and further. It can reach the tissue that makes up the jawbone and recede even further, resulting in unstable teeth and tooth loss. 

Do I Need a Referral to See a Periodontist?

There are different routes you can take in order to see our Periodontist. To begin, it is always a good idea to make an appointment with our dentist first. The dentist will examine your mouth and look for symptoms of gingivitis or signs that periodontal disease has already taken hold. From there, we can have our periodontist take over and begin treatment. If you are coming from a different dental office, you do not need a referral to see our periodontal for a consultation. 

What Are Signs and Symptoms?

There are certain signs and symptoms that you should take seriously. If you experience any of these issues, schedule an appointment with our periodontist right away.  

• Bleeding Gums : Bleeding gums when you eat or brush your teeth are both the most common signs of a periodontal infection. 
• Halitosis : Bad breath, also known as halitosis, that persists no matter how much you brush your teeth, use mouthwash, or chew mints can be an indicator. This could point to gingivitis, periodontitis, or a gum tissue infection. 
• Gum Recession : As mentioned before, when your body is fighting a gum tissue infection, your gums will continue to recede until the bacteria is removed. 
• Loose Teeth : If you notice any loose teeth, this could mean an infection has taken hold and is now affecting your jawbone. To prevent tooth loss and extensive dental procedure, you need to seek treatment promptly. 
• Gangrene : This condition is not often thought about when you consider your oral health. However, it does exist. It is found in soft tissues, certain jaw bones, and the periodontal ligament. The periodontist is best able to diagnose this. 
• Health Conditions : Believe it or not, certain health conditions are highly correlated with periodontitis and infections. Bacteria infections in your gums can spread through your body via the bloodstream and greatly affect other parts of the body. These conditions include: heart disease, osteopenia, osteoporosis and diabetes. 

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Before we begin any treatment, steps must be taken for diagnosis. We extensively examine your gums, jawbone, and the overall condition of your teeth. If, based on examinations, you are diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontal disease, we offer surgical and non surgical options. These procedures stop further tissue and gum recession and fix or replace teeth that have been damaged or fallen out. 

Gingivitis Treatment: We perform scaling and root planing that removes unwanted debris from pockets. This allows your gums to heal and relieve inflammation. 

Moderate Periodontal Disease: When the disease is determined to be moderate, more extensive scaling and root planing is required. We use a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable and pain free during the procedure. 

Advanced Periodontal Disease: The advanced stage of periodontal disease means bone loss and gum recession. Initially, root planing and scaling will be done. In this case, you are most likely looking at a surgical treatment as this is the only way to reduce pocket depth and get your mouth healthy again. 

Tooth Loss: For tooth loss, our dental implants are a very effective option. We can anchor new teeth to your existing jawbone if it is deemed strong enough. If this is not the case, we also provide artificial anchors for your new teeth. 

To learn more about our Periodontist Services, call our team at Elite Dental. We truly care about your oral health. No matter what condition your teeth are in, we have a safe and comfortable environment for you to be treated in. A specific and unique treatment plan will be created depending on your needs.