Your oral hygiene is an important aspect of your overall health. Studies show that there is a definite link between periodontal (gum) disease and much more severe health-related issues such as stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.

Gingivitis can lead to more serious problems such as periodontitis and is a leading cause of tooth decay and loss in adults.

It is essential that a periodontal exam is regularly performed. Early intervention is the best defense against periodontitis. A periodontal exam includes an exam of the teeth, gums and X-rays of the underlying bone structure. If gum disease is indicated we can generally perform a non-surgical course of action that is highly effective and relatively painless. Good oral hygiene is an important deterrent to gum disease. ARESTIN is often recommended as an adjunct to comprehensive tooth cleaning procedures for reduction of pocket depth in patients with adult periodontitis.

With early detection, more serious dental problems can be avoided. Our team of doctors can keep your teeth healthy so that you can avoid more serious problems if your oral health is left unchecked.
Periodontal disease very often progresses over a period of time, and sometimes without pain. The longer it goes unnoticed, the more damage it causes to gums and tissues.

Making your oral health a priority as part of your continuous healthcare and performing a simple, yet regular, oral hygiene routine of brushing several times daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and flossing daily, will significantly reduce the development of gum disease and help keep your natural teeth for life.

What is a Periodontist?

Within dentistry, there are several specialties to address the needs of individual patients. A periodontist specializes in diseases and degeneration of the gums. Periodontist requires special training after completing dental school. Typically, they continue training for an additional two to five years in their chosen specialty.

Periodontal disease is one of the major reasons for tooth loss. As symptoms of the disease develop, a dentist may refer patients to a periodontist for special treatment. These specialists are generally used for the most severe cases of gum disease as they are able to employ a variety of surgical and non-surgical to treat inflammation, infection and degeneration. Periodontists are also able to perform a variety of cosmetic procedures to improve appearance and restore damaged areas.

Some non-surgical techniques that periodontists may use are root planning and dental scaling. These procedures remove plaque from the roots of the teeth thus inhibiting the growth of additional bacteria. They may also perform root debridement in which the tissue that has been damaged is removed. Surgical treatments such as bone grafting can be used to replace areas where the bone has deteriorated.

Periodontists are also able to perform a variety of cosmetic procedures. They may lengthen crowns to improve the appearance of teeth that are worn or they may restore veneers for a more complete restoration. Periodontists are also able to place dental implants, a more complex surgical procedure. Dental implants can be used to replace lost teeth and attach directly to the jaw providing better comfort, fit and durability.

Dental insurance does not always cover the services or procedures provided by a periodontist due to the nature of the specialty. However, for most patients experiencing issues with their gums or periodontal disease, a working relationship with both a dentist and a specialist will provide the best results.