What is Periodontics? Whole Dental Wellness

So, your dentist has referred you to a perio…per…per? A what? A periodontist.

A periodontist specializes in the treatment of gum disease. So, if you have been referred to one, you most likely have some sort of inflammation or gum disease. Or you may be looking for more information on dental implants. Periodontists treat the area of the gums surrounding your teeth. Your gums protect your teeth from harmful bacteria that, in genetically prone people, cause all sorts of problems.

Research shows that there is a link between oral health and other health conditions. Interesting, right? Heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues are all correlated with poor gum health. That means when you take care of your gums, you are much less likely to have these issues throughout your life.

These are common Periodontal issues and treatments:

• Gingivitis: This is the early stage of gum disease, which is inflamed or bleeding gums. When you have your regular hygiene appointments, this can often reverse itself.
• Periodontitis: When gingivitis is left untreated, the next stage is called periodontitis. This is where you have an infection in the deeper part of the tissues around your teeth. A cleaning called scaling and root planing can help manage periodontitis.
• Gum Recession: When your gums recede, it can expose the roots of your teeth, which makes them more likely to have decay and even sensitivity. Surgical procedures like gum grafting can restore the gumline and protect tooth roots.
• Periodontal Surgery: In advanced cases, periodontal surgery may be necessary to repair damaged tissues and regenerate bone loss. There are different techniques, such as gum grafts and bone grafting, that are used to restore your oral health.

Prevention and Maintenance

If you want to prevent these issues from starting, see your dentist regularly and commit to your regular cleanings. If you are at greater risk, your dentist may recommend more frequent preventive care. Make sure you are doing your best with your at-home care with regular brushing and flossing daily.

At our office, we appreciate the opportunity to educate you on your oral health and work with you to prevent these issues from happening.