Periodontal Services
Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease as well as the process of replacing teeth with dental implants. Periodontists receive up to three years of additional, specialized training in treating periodontal disease and other conditions.
Periodontists are also specialists in treating oral inflammation and any condition requiring either non-surgical treatment or oral plastic surgery. Oftentimes, periodontists are treating conditions caused by periodontal disease and its effects such as persistent bad breath or gum recession.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling & root planing is a therapy used to stabilizethe progression of gum disease. This course of treatment uses specialized instruments to reach these more difficult areas 5mm+ below the gum line. It involves removing plaque and tartar in the deep periodontal pockets and then smoothing the exposed root surfaces. This helps to prevent further bacterial growth and promotes healing and some reattachment to the teeth.
Periodontal Maintenance
Unlike a normal, preventative cleaning, periodontal maintenance is necessary to prevent the reoccurrence of active periodontal disease. It involves both scaling & root planing, meaning tartar must be periodically removed from the deep periodontal pockets to minimize the risk of further attachment loss. The time period between periomaintenances is typically 3 months. Hundreds of studies completed over 50+ years have shown that this is the time period that the plaque will accumulate sufficiently enough to initiate further attachment loss.
Periodontitis (Gum Disease)
Periodontitis is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues supporting teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and bone. It’s a progressive disease that advances over time unless treated. Unfortunately, once the support has been lost around the tooth there is no way to regenerate it. Periodontal disease can also negatively affect other body systems including putting people at a higher risk of heart attack and dementia.