Periodontics: Gum Health, Periodontal Disease, Scaling and Root Planing, Pocket Reduction, Bone Grafting

Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum diseases. The health of your gums is just as important as the health of your teeth, as they provide a foundation for your teeth to stay in place. Neglecting gum health can lead to periodontal disease, which can result in tooth loss and other serious health problems.

Periodontal disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria in the gums. If left untreated, it can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss. Symptoms of periodontal disease include red, swollen, and bleeding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth.

Fortunately, periodontal disease can be treated and prevented with good oral hygiene habits and regular visits to a dental professional. A professional dentist can provide a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums through a process called scaling and root planing.

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning of the teeth and gums that involves removing plaque and tartar buildup above and below the gum line. The dentist uses specialized tools to remove the buildup and smooth out the roots of the teeth to discourage further buildup. This process can take several appointments and is typically done under local anesthesia.

If the periodontal disease has progressed, a pocket reduction procedure may be necessary. This procedure involves making incisions in the gums to lift them away from the teeth and remove the buildup of plaque and tartar. The gums are then sutured back in place to reduce the size of the pockets, which helps prevent bacteria from accumulating in the future.

In some cases, bone grafting may be necessary to help regenerate bone that has been lost due to periodontal disease. This procedure involves taking bone from another part of the body or using synthetic bone to encourage the growth of new bone tissue in the affected area. This can help restore the strength and structure of the jawbone, which is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

It’s important to stress the importance of seeking professional dental care when it comes to periodontal health. While there are many over-the-counter products that claim to improve gum health, they are not as effective as professional treatments. In fact, some products can actually make the problem worse by irritating the gums or causing further damage. Learn more.

Professional dental care also ensures that any underlying issues are properly diagnosed and treated. Periodontal disease can be a sign of other health problems, such as diabetes or heart disease, so it’s important to have a thorough examination by a dental professional.

In addition to professional care, maintaining good oral hygiene habits is key to preventing periodontal disease. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums. Eating a healthy diet that’s low in sugar and high in nutrients can also help support gum health.

In conclusion, periodontal health is crucial for overall oral health and can impact overall health as well. Periodontal disease can be treated and prevented with professional dental care and good oral hygiene habits. Seeking professional dental care is important for proper diagnosis and treatment, and should not be neglected or replaced by over-the-counter products. Remember, prevention is key to maintaining healthy gums and teeth for a lifetime. Next article.