Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions that affect the gums and underlying bone. The gums are often looked over by many regarding care. However, they play an important role in maintaining the function and health of the entire mouth. Partnering with a periodontist or a gum specialist can save your smile when other methods prove insufficient.
Many dental professionals who specialize in other fields of dentistry often refer patients to a periodontist when they have one of the three forms of periodontal (gum) disease: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. It is an infection that ravishes the gum tissue (gingiva) and leads to irreversible consequences if left untreated. Gum disease starts with gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gum tissue. While this stage is reversible, it is only possible with early intervention. Periodontitis can lead to bleeding, pain, discoloration, and gum recession. Left untreated, it can lead to irreversible advanced periodontitis, also known as swamp mouth, which can begin tooth loss and the deterioration of the alveolar bone.
Periodontists can remove the plaque and tartar that contribute to gum disease through regular periodontal cleanings and deep scaling and root planing procedures. Early intervention and maintenance help prevent the progression of the disease, saving teeth and maintaining the health of the gums, which are the foundation of a healthy smile.
When periodontal disease has progressed to the point where bone loss occurs, periodontics offers treatments such as bone regeneration. This procedure encourages the growth of new bone around teeth weakened by periodontal disease. By regenerating bone, the periodontist helps to restore teeth stability, preventing further damage and the potential need for tooth extraction.
Gum grafting is a separate but essential periodontal procedure that helps restore the gum line when it has receded due to gum disease, brushing too hard, or underlying medical conditions. Gum recession can expose tooth roots, leading to sensitivity and an increased risk of decay. By grafting healthy gum tissue to cover the exposed roots, the periodontist improves the smile's appearance and protects the teeth from further damage.
Periodontists specialize in placing a permanent tooth replacement option— dental implants. A dental implant is a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant is in place, a crown is attached, restoring the tooth's function and appearance.
Periodontists have specialized training in implant placement, ensuring that the implant is securely anchored in the bone and integrated properly. Additionally, periodontists monitor the long-term health of the implant to prevent complications such as peri-implantitis, a form of gum disease that can affect implants. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime and provide a natural-looking and functional solution for tooth loss.
All in all, periodontics aims to restore and preserve your oral health by caring for the gums and underlying bone. If you are in need of a periodontist, Charles E. Dyer IV, DDS, MS, PC can help. Contact our Cypress office to see which treatments are most effective for you.
Request an appointment here: https://www.charlesdyeriv.com or call Charles E. Dyer IV, DDS, MS, PC at (281) 213-0900 for an appointment in our Cypress office.
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