At every dental cleaning, we are doing a periodontal exam. There are many things to look at and each item is important. There are times where we will measure the pocket depth of the gums. We look at the color of the gum, see if there is any inflammation or if there is any bleeding. We will look at gum recession, which is when the periodontal tissue moves away from the body of the tooth exposing tooth root surfaces. These are all signs of possible periodontal issues that need to be diagnosed at least twice a year during the dental cleaning and checkup.
The part of dentistry that covers the steps of prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease is known as periodontics. Not only are the gums part of this exam, but the underlying bone as well. The gum tissue protects the bone and when that gums are having an issue, so can the bone. Now the bones are what hold the teeth in place and keep them sturdy to help us eat and bite. This is why making sure the gums are healthy is very important. We want to steer clear of periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease is often called gum disease. When periodontal disease goes unchecked it can cause severe soft and hard tissue damage. This can result in lost teeth if not treated correctly and appropriately. This is the reason why the periodontal branch of dentistry is so important.
Periodontal Disease
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention approximately, some form of periodontal disease affects half of Americans. Their studies and findings actually suggest that 64.7 million Americans suffer from periodontitis. This can range from a mild, moderate or even severe degree. Anyone ages 65 and older increase their likelihood of suffering from this disease jumps from 47.2 percent to 70.1 percent.
Even though periodontics and periodontal disease can affect patients at almost any age, chances of developing this disease increases as a person gets older. That shows that gum health is just as important as your overall health. Because our staff is highly trained in the process of diagnosing, treating, and preventing periodontal disease and periodontics you can feel at ease and confident about the health of your gums and teeth when you see us regularly.
Periodontal Treatment Options
Periodontal disease will eventually cause and result in a loss of teeth if left undiagnosed and untreated. In all of our visits, our diagnostics are aimed and targeted at diagnosing any periodontics issues that need to be treated. By utilizing and using the latest technology, our diagnosing and treatment process starts as early as possible. In many cases we can treat the issue at our office. Many times our treatments are done in the most effective way to minimise recurrence. If an issue is ever detected that would need a Periodontist we have one located in our office ready to help.
What is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is someone who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. This person is a dentist that has received extensive training in these fields and has had 2-3 years of additional schooling beyond dental school. Additionally, they can place dental implants.
Our dentists have been trained to help you as a patient to prevent gum disease and with treatment if it has been found. We help to treat and care for your mouth at all stages and to reduce the risk as much as possible. In all stages from inflammation of the gums to really severe gum disease, a good and well thought out plan for treating your mouth can be the difference between losing and keeping your teeth.
Since no one is the same, all cases will get a thorough examination. If the diagnoses are correct and caught early, you can lower any potential damage that can be caused by periodontal disease.
We are more than happy to help answer any questions or concerns that you may have. We would love for you to come in for an appointment to sit down and assess the situation. If there is any treatment or procedures needed, they will all be discussed with you thoroughly.
Speak with our dentists to see what is right for you. Periodontics dentistry can also lead to the placement of dental implants in order to manage periodontal disease and other situations.