Periodontal

During your initial oral examination, our dentist will look for signs of periodontal disease, which is an infection caused by plaque build-up along the gum line. This disease has several stages, and our dentist offers effective treatment options for each stage.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. When you visit us, we will look for signs of swollen, red gums that bleed easily. The best treatment for gingivitis is regular flossing and gentle brushing.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a more advanced stage of periodontal disease. If you are diagnosed with this condition, then you run the risk of having gum damage and tooth loss. Trust us to help you repair the damage.

Treatment

With over 20 years of experience, you can trust our dentist to devise a treatment plan that will rehabilitate your teeth and gums. In order to get the most success, you should begin treatment immediately.

What is Periodontics Treatment, and Why Is It Important?

When you’re diagnosed with periodontal disease, it’s important that you get treatment right away. The effects of periodontal disease have serious consequences that range from infections at the gum line to gum tissue and bone loss. These dental problems can be reversed with the care of a qualified, experienced dental practice like ours.

We offer periodontics treatment that will restore your oral health quickly and efficiently. Our experienced dentist, Dr. Muff, will discuss the treatment options with you, which may include scaling and root planing. Scaling is a non-surgical procedure done with an ultrasonic tool or laser to gently remove plaque and tartar that has built up on your teeth. Root planing is also non-invasive, and is done to remove bacteria and smooth the surfaces of the roots to stop further plaque buildup.

If you have a gum infection caused by periodontal disease, then we may prescribe an antibiotic for you. It’s important to stop any infection in your gums because it can easily spread and cause further damage to your teeth. Infections that are left untreated can enter and damage the jaw bone, and may even spread to the rest of your body.

Periodontal disease in its advanced state may require surgery. In some cases, we may do flap surgery to expose, scale and plane your roots. If your gums have receded to the point of exposing your roots, then we may perform a soft tissue graft using skin from the upper portion of your mouth. Similarly, if your any of the bone in your mouth has been severely damaged we will perform a bone graft.

With such serious consequences on the line, prevention is key! The American Academy of Periodontology recommends brushing twice a day, flossing at least daily, and rinsing your mouth with mouthwash after brushing as ways to help prevent periodontal disease. Healthy lifestyle choices, such as not smoking and seeing your dentist regularly, are also great ways to stop or prevent the effects of gum disease.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment and to get on the right path to optimal oral health.