Periodontics & Implantology

What Does a Periodontist Do?

A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating gum diseases and managing the structures that support your teeth. They provide advanced care for conditions that go beyond the scope of general dentistry.

Here’s what a periodontist typically does:

• Gum Disease Treatment: Managing and treating conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis, from early intervention to advanced surgical options.

• Gum Recession Management: Restoring gums that have pulled back, often exposing sensitive tooth roots.

• Dental Implant Placement: Offering expertise in placing and maintaining implants for patients with missing teeth.

• Surgical and Cosmetic Procedures: Performing surgeries to correct gum issues, improve the aesthetics of your smile, or restore gum and bone health.

With specialized knowledge and training, periodontists ensure your gums remain healthy and provide strong support for your teeth and implants.

Common Periodontal Treatments We Offer at Groove Dental

1. Scaling and Root Planing

This is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar below the gumline. Scaling eliminates the harmful buildup, while root planing smooths the tooth roots to promote reattachment of the gums and reduce pocket depth. It’s an essential treatment for early-stage gum disease.

2. Gum Grafting

If you experience gum recession, gum grafting can restore the gumline and protect exposed tooth roots. This involves grafting tissue from another area, such as the roof of your mouth, to the affected site for a healthier appearance and function.

3. Pocket Reduction Surgery

For cases of advanced gum disease, this surgical procedure is used to clean out bacteria and tartar from deep gum pockets. It also involves reshaping the gums and bone to prevent future infections and make oral hygiene easier.

4. Dental Implants

Periodontists at Groove Dental specialize in placing implants to replace missing teeth. Dental implants provide a long-lasting, functional, and aesthetically pleasing alternative to dentures or bridges.

5. Laser Treatments

Our clinic uses modern laser technology to perform minimally invasive procedures such as gum contouring, pocket cleaning, and gum depigmentation. Laser treatments ensure faster healing and greater comfort for patients.

6. Bone Grafting

This procedure is essential for patients with significant bone loss due to gum disease or tooth loss. Bone grafting restores the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for dental implants and preserving facial structure.

When Should You See a Periodontist?

It’s common for gum problems to progress silently, so you might not notice them until serious damage has occurred.

Here are the signs that you should schedule an appointment with a periodontist:

• Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing could indicate the early stages of gum disease.

• Swollen or Tender Gums: Persistent gum inflammation is a red flag.

• Gum Recession: Teeth that appear longer are often a sign of receding gums, exposing sensitive roots.

• Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic halitosis, or bad breath, could signal a gum infection.

• Loose Teeth: Teeth that feel wobbly are a serious concern and may indicate advanced periodontal disease.

• Gaps Between Teeth: If spaces begin forming between your teeth, gum health may be the issue.

Preventive Attention: Early intervention ensures the best outcomes, so don’t delay if you notice any of these signs.

FAQs

Q1: Are gum treatments painful?

A: Not at Groove Dental! We use numbing agents and advanced technologies to ensure your treatments are as painless as possible.

Q2: Can gum disease be reversed?

A: Early-stage gum disease, like gingivitis, can often be reversed with professional care and improved oral hygiene. Advanced cases, such as periodontitis, require more extensive treatments.

Q3: How often should I schedule periodontal checkups?

A: We recommend seeing your periodontist every 6 months if you have a history of gum disease, or once a year for preventive care.

Q4: Do you offer laser gum treatments?

A: Yes! Groove Dental provides advanced laser treatments for cleaning, contouring gums, and even gum depigmentation.

Q5: I lost a tooth to gum disease. Can I get a dental implant?

A: Absolutely. We specialize in placing dental implants for patients with a history of gum disease and perform bone grafting if necessary to build the required structure for implantation.

Q6: Will scaling and root planing stop my gum disease?

A: Scaling and root planing can significantly slow or halt the progression of gum disease when combined with good oral hygiene practices.

Your Oral Health Journey Starts Here

When it comes to maintaining a healthy smile, understanding the different branches of dentistry is a great first step. If you’re curious about the best care for your unique situation, don’t hesitate to consult your dentist. They can guide you toward the specialized treatments you need to achieve lifelong oral health and confidence.

Take charge of your oral health today—schedule your next dental checkup and discover how modern dentistry can work for you!

How to Choose the Right Dental Treatment for You?

With so many types of dentistry available, it’s natural to wonder which one is right for you.

The good news is that you don’t have to figure it out alone. Regular visits to best dentist near you will help keep tabs on your oral health, and they’ll point you toward a specialist if needed. Whether it’s orthodontics for straighter teeth, endodontics for a root canal, or cosmetic dentistry for a smile upgrade, there’s a dental professional ready to meet your specific needs.