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Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and conditions that affect the gums, teeth and the surrounding supporting structures (bone, ligaments, and tooth-supporting fibers). Periodontal diseases include gingivitis and periodontitis.
Periodontists are dental specialists who have completed additional education and training in periodontics beyond dental school. They use advanced technology and techniques, such as digital imaging and laser therapy, to diagnose and treat periodontal diseases and to help patients maintain healthy gums and teeth.
You should visit a periodontist if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums: These are signs of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease.
Receding gums: When the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth, it is called gum recession. This can be caused by periodontal disease or other factors.
Loose teeth: Periodontal disease can cause the bones and tissues that support the teeth to deteriorate, making the teeth loose.
Persistent bad breath: Chronic bad breath can be a sign of periodontal disease or other oral health issues.
Pus around the teeth and gums: This is a sign of an infection, which is often caused by periodontal disease.
Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite: Periodontal disease can cause the bones and tissues that support the teeth to deteriorate, which can change the way the teeth fit together when you bite.
Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite: Periodontal disease can cause the bones and tissues that support the teeth to deteriorate, which can change the way the teeth fit together when you bite.
It is also important to note that it is important to visit a periodontist as part of your regular dental check-ups, even if you are not experiencing any symptoms. A periodontist can detect and treat any issues early on before they become more serious.
Periodontal diseases are a group of conditions that affect the gums, teeth and the surrounding supporting structures (bone, ligaments, and tooth-supporting fibers). Some of the most common periodontal diseases include:
This is a mild form of gum disease that causes inflammation and bleeding of the gums. It is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which can be prevented with good oral hygiene.
This is a more severe form of gum disease that occurs when gingivitis is left untreated. It causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that become infected. The infection can damage the bone and supporting tissues, and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
This is a rare and severe form of periodontitis that occurs in people who are otherwise healthy, and it progresses rapidly.
This is the most common form of periodontitis, it progresses slowly and affects the majority of people who have gum disease.
This is a group of rare and severe gum infections that primarily affect people with weakened immune systems, such as individuals who are HIV-positive or have other immune deficiencies.
Dental abscesses are localized bacterial infections within the periodontium, which can be acute or chronic, and can be caused by different factors.
Some systemic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory disease have been linked to an increased risk of periodontal disease.
It is important to note that periodontal diseases can have serious consequences if left untreated, including tooth loss, and may also affect overall health, so early diagnosis and treatment is important.
Periodontists perform a variety of procedures to diagnose, treat, and prevent periodontal diseases. Some of the most common procedures include:
Scaling and root planning: This is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, and smooths the root surfaces to help the gums reattach to the teeth.
Pocket reduction surgery: This procedure involves removing infected tissue and smoothing the roots of the teeth to reduce the depth of the pockets and help the gums reattach to the teeth.
Bone and tissue grafts: This procedure is used to replace bone and tissue that has been destroyed by periodontal disease. The grafts can be taken from the patient or from a tissue bank.
Soft tissue grafts: This procedure is used to cover exposed roots and to thicken thin gums.
Guided tissue regeneration: This procedure uses a membrane or special material to protect the bone and tissue while it regenerates.
Dental implant placement: Periodontists may place dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots that are placed into the jaw to support a replacement tooth or bridge.
Crown lengthening: This procedure is used to expose a greater amount of tooth structure for the placement of a restoration, such as a crown or bridge.
Sinus lifts: This procedure is used to add bone to the upper jaw in the back of the mouth, where the sinus cavities are located.
Ridge augmentation: This procedure is used to build up a ridge of bone in the jaw where there is not enough bone to support dental implants.
It is important to note that the type of procedure will be recommended by the periodontist based on the specific case, the stage of the disease, and the patient’s overall health and dental goals.
FAQ
When a single permanent tooth or multiple teeth are lost due todental decay or gum disease, dental implants can now replace them as the 3rd set of fixed teeth! Dental implants can last a lifetime and can improve your appearance, your confidence, and your ability to eat the foods you like, and participate in an active lifestyle, without worrying about your teeth. Dental implants are made of titanium and can never get dental decay!
Like any minor oral surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, inflammation, and pain, but your prosthodontist will discuss how these can be managed for your specific situation. If there is no available bone to place the implant, then bone and gum grafting procedures may be required, which can increase the cost of your treatment. However, the upfront investment can pay off in the long term.
In general, the cost of replacing a single tooth with a dental implant is almost the same as replacing it with a regular fixed bridge. The cost of dental implants will vary by patient needs, bone quantity, and region. A prosthodontist will make an assessment based on your unique needs.
It varies from individual to individual and with health and habits. For a healthy individual with good oral hygiene and good health, dental implants are predictably successful with reported success rates above 90-95 percent.
Unlike natural teeth, dental implants are not susceptible to dental disease such as decay; however, the health of the gums is vital to maintaining lasting implant success. Conscientious home care by the patient and regular professional cleanings and check-ups are essential elements for dental implant sustainability. Each patient is different, and success relies upon diagnosis and planning, medical history, and a variety of other factors.
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