Periodontal treatment refers to a range of dental procedures aimed at preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. This condition involves inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, leading to gum swelling, bleeding, and receding gums. Periodontal treatment by our dentist in San Diego, CA, uses various techniques, including scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline, gum grafting to repair receding gums, and periodontal surgery to address advanced gum disease and restore gum health. By effectively managing gum disease, periodontal treatment helps prevent tooth loss, preserve oral function, and promote overall oral health and well-being.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common and potentially serious condition characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It typically begins with the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth and along the gumline, leading to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the infection spreads deeper into the gums and bone, causing gum recession, tooth loss, and bone deterioration. Symptoms of periodontal disease may include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and loose or shifting teeth. Effective management and treatment of periodontal disease are crucial to prevent further damage to the teeth and gums and maintain oral health.
Types of Periodontal Treatments
Scaling and Root Planing
Also known as deep cleaning, scaling, and root planing, dentists at San Diego Smile Dentistry remove plaque and tartar deposits from the teeth and below the gum line. This procedure eliminates bacteria and toxins contributing to gum inflammation and infection. It also smoothens the tooth roots, discouraging further plaque buildup and facilitating gum tissue reattachment.
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure to repair receding gums caused by periodontal disease or other factors. During the procedure, gum tissue is harvested from another area of the mouth or a donor source and grafted onto the affected areas to cover exposed tooth roots and enhance gum tissue thickness and attachment.
Periodontal Surgery
In advanced cases of periodontal disease where non-surgical treatments are insufficient, periodontal surgery may be necessary to access and remove deeply embedded plaque and tartar, reduce pocket depths, and reshape the gum tissue for better attachment to the teeth. Types of periodontal surgery include flap surgery, bone grafting, and guided tissue regeneration.
Laser Therapy
Laser-assisted periodontal therapy involves using laser technology to remove infected tissue, decontaminate periodontal pockets, and promote gum tissue regeneration. Laser therapy is less invasive than traditional surgery and may result in faster healing and reduced patient discomfort.
Maintenance Therapy
Following active periodontal treatment, maintenance therapy is essential for the long-term management of gum disease. This typically involves regular dental check-ups, professional cleanings, and ongoing monitoring of periodontal health to prevent disease recurrence and maintain optimal oral hygiene.
Advantages of Periodontal Treatment
Preservation of Natural Teeth
Periodontal treatment in San Diego, CA, aims to address gum inflammation and infection, preventing further damage to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontal treatment helps prevent tooth loss and maintain a healthy dentition by preserving the integrity of the tooth-supporting tissues.
Improved Oral Health
By removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and below the gum line, periodontal treatment reduces the risk of gum disease progression and associated complications such as tooth decay, gum recession, and bone loss. This leads to improved oral health and a reduced likelihood of developing other systemic conditions linked to periodontal disease, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Alleviation of Discomfort
Gum disease can cause symptoms such as gum swelling, bleeding, tenderness, and bad breath. Periodontal treatment targets the underlying causes of these symptoms, relieving discomfort and enhancing oral comfort and well-being.
Enhanced Aesthetics
Gum disease can lead to aesthetic concerns such as gum recession, tooth gaps, and a gummy smile. Periodontal treatment addresses these issues by restoring gum health, improving gum tissue contour, and enhancing the smile's appearance, resulting in a more attractive and confident smile. Contact us to explore flexible options for financing your dental treatments.
Prevention of Tooth Mobility and Loss
If left untreated, advanced gum disease can lead to tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss. Periodontal treatment helps stabilize loose teeth, reduce pocket depths, and promote gum tissue attachment to the teeth, preventing tooth mobility and preserving natural dentition.
Improved Systemic Health
Research suggests a bidirectional relationship between gum disease and systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. By reducing the inflammatory burden associated with gum disease, periodontal treatment may contribute to improved overall health and reduced risk of systemic complications.
Periodontal treatment is crucial in preserving oral health, preventing tooth loss, enhancing aesthetics, and promoting overall well-being. Visit San Diego Smile Dentistry at 7710 Balboa Ave, STE 123, San Diego, CA 92111 at (619) 737-6453 to schedule a consultation with our experienced periodontal team to discuss your treatment options and discover how periodontal treatment can benefit your oral health and overall well-being.
