Periodontics

Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the health of your gums and the structures supporting your teeth, like the bone. A periodontist specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum diseases, as well as performing procedures like gum grafts or gum contouring. Basically, they’re the go-to experts for keeping your gums and the foundation of your teeth healthy.

The benefits of seeing a periodontist include:

• Specialized Care for Gum-Related Issues: If you are dealing with advanced gum disease, a periodontist is your go-to specialist. Whether you’re facing frequent or severe gum disease and need soft tissue grafts, a periodontist can provide tailored and specialized care to address these specific concerns.
• Navigating Other Illnesses: Periodontists have a deep understanding of how periodontal disease can impact overall health. They can navigate the relationship between gum health and other serious medical conditions, including diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and cardiovascular disease.

Your initial appointment with the periodontist involves a thorough assessment of your oral health. This includes a review of your medical and dental history, necessary x-rays, and a detailed examination of your teeth and gums. The periodontist will create a personalized treatment plan, providing a comprehensive explanation of the recommended treatments and addressing any questions you may have. The primary focus of this first appointment is to explore treatment options, address concerns, and setting the stage for ongoing care aimed at enhancing your oral health.

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums. It develops throughout the day and can be removed through regular brushing and flossing. However, if not removed, it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

On the other hand, calculus (also known as tartar) is a hardened form of plaque that has mineralized on the teeth. It typically forms over time when plaque is not effectively removed. Unlike plaque, calculus cannot be removed through regular brushing and flossing and requires professional dental cleaning.

Gingivitis is the only stage of gum disease that is reversible. Regular professional cleanings with the periodontist and following oral hygiene instructions can restore your gum health.

• Tobacco smoking
• Systemic diseases such as diabetes
• Pregnancy
• Crooked teeth
• Poor dental hygiene

Although gum disease does not commonly occur in children, teaching them good oral hygiene habits can be a great way to ensure that they do not develop gum disease later on in life.

Research indicates that there is a link between diabetes and gum disease. Diabetics have a greater risk of developing gum disease. Current research also suggests that individuals who improve their oral hygiene habits also positively affect their blood sugar levels.

Evidence does indicate a genetic link to periodontal disease, suggesting that genetic factors can contribute to its onset and development, particularly when it appears early in life. Despite genetic predispositions, practicing good oral hygiene, scheduling regular check-ups, and avoiding tobacco products are crucial steps in effectively managing periodontal disease. These measures are essential even for individuals with a family history of gum problems.

The several causes of bad breath include:

• Dry mouth from mouth breathing or certain medications
• Infections or chronic inflammation in the throat or sinuses
• Tobacco products
• Poor dental hygiene
• Chronic reflux of stomach acids
• Foods with strong odours

Persistent bad breath may potentially be a warning sign of gum disease.

If you have a gummy smile, please consult with your periodontist to check if crown lengthening is the solution for you. The periodontist will advise you about the benefits of removing excess gum tissue to create a more proportional balance.

For gum recession, a periodontist may suggest the following treatments:

• Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): In mild cases, a deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar above and below the gum line, reducing sensitivity and promoting gum health.
• Gum Grafting: In advanced cases, gum grafting involves taking tissue from another part of the mouth and suturing it onto the area with insufficient gum tissue.
• Bone Grafting: If bone loss accompanies gum recession, a bone graft may be needed to supplement the bone in the affected area.

While both periodontists and endodontists are dental specialists, they focus on different aspects of oral health. Endodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating tooth pain and performing root canal treatments. A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. Periodontists specialize in the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, while endodontists specialize in the dental pulp and nerves within the teeth.

Studies indicate a co-relation between your gum and oral health to your overall wellbeing. The best way to optimize your dental health and prevent gum disease is to continue being seen by both your general dentist and periodontist in order to receive comprehensive support.

Periodontists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease. Some of the common periodontal treatments include:

• Deep cleaning (for bleeding gums)
• Gum contouring (gummy smile correction)
• Soft tissue grafting (to cover exposed root surfaces)
• Pocket reduction therapy (for gum disease)

• Evidence indicates that bacteria responsible for periodontitis re-establish 3 months after treatment.
• For patients with periodontitis, once the periodontal infection is stabilized, a maintenance cleaning every 3 to 4 months is recommended to prevent relapse and tooth loss.

To schedule a complimentary consultation for gingivitis or gum disease, you can WhatsApp us at +97156 3211745 or call us at +9714 3987075.