Periodontics

Periodontal means "around the tooth." Healthy gum tissue and bone form the supporting foundation of each tooth. This is a silent disease--much like heart disease. When you can feel your tooth or teeth moving, it may be too late.

The signs are:

1. Gums that bleed easily
2. Red, swollen, or tender gums
3. Persistent bad breath or bad taste
4. Pus between the teeth and gums
5. Loose teeth
6. A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
7. A change in the fit of partial dentures
8. Gums that have pulled away from your teeth--receding gums

Gum disease is mainly caused by a bacterial plaque that constantly forms on your teeth. These bacteria produce toxins--special aggressive enzymes and acids to break down your healthy tissue. Most gum diseases take time to develop; it does not occur overnight. For most people, the total removal of bacteria twice a day from the mouth is the answer. This requires correct brushing and flossing. I can unequivocally state that most people do not take the time or they use improper technique. Just like waxing your car or cleaning your house, time and proper technique are necessary.

There are two major forms of periodontal disease

1. Gingivitis
2. Periodontitis

Gingivitis is a mild, mostly reversible form of gum disease. The signs are red, tender, swollen gums that bleed easily. Correct brushing and flossing along with professional care dispensed by the hygienist normally prevents this.

Periodontitis is the more destructive form of gum disease. Gums detach from your teeth, bone is lost, teeth get loose, gum pockets are present, and cavities into the root are a major problem. This requires the care of the Periodontist to determine what kind of care is necessary.

One form of gum disease that does not get much attention is "recession." There is no bleeding and the gums look pink and healthy. However, what has occurred is loss of bone. This usually occurs in the smile zone first--your upper and lower front teeth. The normal response from a patient is "my teeth are sensitive to cold." We especially see this at the beginning of winter (breathing cold air) or summer (drinking cold drinks). Besides being a cosmetic problem when we smile, the area exposed (the root of the tooth) is more susceptible to cavities. And, as in all disease processes, it always gets worse. Think of a fence post losing dirt around it so that more and more of it has less of a footing in the ground. This is what happens in recession and periodontitis.

There are many forms of gum treatments

1. Pocket elimination
2. Crown lengthening
3. Regeneration
4. Antibacterial testing
5. Antibacterial treatment
6. Root planning and curettage
7. Gum and tooth scaling
8. Gum contouring for cosmetic reasons

Depending on your needs we can personalize your treatment. Call and make an appointment today for a better and healthier mouth and body!!