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A periodontist is often called “the plastic surgeons of dentistry.” This is because periodontists specialize in complex techniques that involve remodeling soft tissue (gums) and bone. A periodontist treats complex cases of gum disease and requires extended education, as opposed to a general dentist. Additionally, periodontists focus on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases that affect the gums and the bone structures that support the teeth.
There are several other specialties that a periodontist focuses on, including:
Periodontitis disease, also known as gum disease, is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. This is why it is so important to maintain your oral health by scheduling appointments regularly with your dentist. Periodontists are often needed in complicated cases of gum disease. It takes special training and experience in order for one to treat gum disease, as there are several underlying conditions that can cause the disease. There are a number of effective treatments and restorative measures that can be taken when treating gum disease. It is also important to know that periodontists also work in conjunction with general dentists. This allows them both to come up with a strategic plan that can effectively treat the patient’s gum disease and prevent it from recurring.
There are a number of tools used to fight gum disease; however, it usually starts out with the least invasive and inexpensive methods. For instance, treatment can begin with scaling and root planing, which are instruments used to clean the root surfaces of the teeth. Another method that can be used are lasers, as well as medications. Also, removing dental plaque and hardened calculus from the surface of the teeth underneath the gums can treat the patient’s gum disease.
On the other hand, if the gum disease has developed over a long period of time without treatment, then a minor gum surgery may be required. For example, this is done by way of creating a small “flap” in the gum tissue, and the infected tissue and bacteria is removed from under the “pocket” of the gums. Once that is done, this allows for healthier gum tissue to naturally reattach to the bone. This minor surgery is known as “pocket reduction” surgery, and it can stop the development of the disease.
It is important to know that gum disease can actually wear down the bone in the jaw and damage the surrounding tissues that support your teeth. If it is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. If you are in need of restoring bone loss and gums, then your periodontist will recommend treatments, such as bone grafts, gum grafts, and tissue-stimulating growth methods. These procedures can help preserve your natural teeth.
There are times when teeth can’t be saved. Fortunately, there are dental implants, which are placed into the jawbone. This is done through a minor surgical procedure, which involves prosthetic teeth that are natural-looking and are completely functional. Dental implants are a great alternative for patients who want to improve the appearance of their smile.
Other issues, such as gum recession, can be treated with gum graft surgery. This results in a better-looking smile, and can help with tooth sensitivity and prevent tooth decay. Lastly, if you have issues with a “gummy” smile, this can be treated with crown lengthening surgery. This procedure helps patients that have too much of their gums showing, and only a small amount of their teeth showing. Whatever the case may be, our periodontist in Los Angeles can get you the help that you need. We specialize in an abundance of surgical dental work.
Children and adults should brush and floss regularly to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Regular checkups at the dentist and professional teeth cleaning can help as well. However, some people can develop gum disease even if they pay great attention to their oral hygiene.
When you visit your dentist and he or she notices a problem with your gums, it may be time to see a gum specialist. At Dental Community Clinic, we are here to help you every step of the way. Feel free to contact us any time to schedule an appointment with an experienced and skilled periodontist in Huntington Park.
Our office is equipped with the latest and most advanced technology and we are prepared to offer the best level of care and treatment by our experienced dentists and staff.
