Gum Disease

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What is Periodontics?

Is the Dental Specialty that focus completely in the disease that destroys the gums and other structures around the teeth. Therefore, a periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease, and placement of dental implants. In addition, Periodontists obtain considerable education in these areas, together with 3 extra years of schooling beyond dental college.

This Specialists deal with cases starting from moderate gingivitis to more extreme periodontitis. They provide a extensive variety of treatments, which includes scaling and root planing, root surface debridement, and regenerative procedures. When necessary, periodontists can also carry out surgical procedures for patients with severe gum disease. Additionally, periodontists are educated in the placement, preservation and repair of dental implants.

Gum disease is diagnosed when probing reveals one or more periodontal pockets, or regions in which the gum has pulled far from the tooth, four millimeters deep or more. In a few instances, only one quadrant, or quarter of the mouth, may be affected. In other cases, the affected areas may additionally span at some stage in the whole mouth.

Gum disease can be caused by a lack of regular and proper brushing and flossing, long periods of time between regular professional dental cleanings, and other known conditions which includes diabetes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is gum disease?

Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues and bones that surround and support the teeth. It’s caused by the growth of bacteria present in plaque, which is a clear, sticky substance that your mouth produces.

Periodontitis is a severe type of gum disease that can’t be reversed. Gingivitis is a type that can be mild to severe, but it can be reversed.

Keeping your teeth and gums healthy can lower your risk of gum disease.

How can I prevent tooth decay and gum disease?

Good oral hygiene starts at home, though it needs to be supplemented by regular visits to our cosmetic and general dentistry practice, Astoria Dental Group. Steps you can take to prevent tooth decay and gum disease include:

Thorough brushing

Brush at least twice daily using a soft-bristle toothbrush and an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. This helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and the need for costly cosmetic or restorative dentistry in the future. Replace your brush every two to three months.

Proper flossing

Flossing is crucial to the health of your teeth and gums and the prevention of gum disease. When flossing, use an 18-inch strand of floss. Ease the floss between each tooth; then, sweep it up and down several times while curving around the tooth at the gum line. Don’t forget to floss behind your last tooth and to floss bridges and artificial teeth with the aid of a floss threader.

Regular dental visits

At every regularly-scheduled dental appointment at Family Cosmetic Dentistry, one of our dentists will carefully check your teeth, gums, mouth, and throat. A checkup at Family Cosmetic Dentistry office includes:

A head and neck examination: This includes a cancer exam, facial exam, palpation of chewing muscles, palpation of lymph nodes, and an exam of the temporomandibular (jaw) joint.
A clinical dental examination: This includes a periodontal exam and examinations of the mobility of teeth, the mucous membranes, saliva, occlusion (bite), removable appliances, and contact between teeth. If we detect tooth decay or broken fillings, we will discuss appropriate action with you.
A full set of digital X-rays
A dental cleaning (prophylaxis): This includes scaling plaque, polishing teeth, flossing, assessing your mouth’s cleanliness, and providing oral hygiene instructions. If you wish to learn more about proper brushing and flossing techniques, ask your dentist about it at this stage of the visit.

What are the stages of gum disease? How is gum disease treated?

Gum disease has several stages. The initial stage is called gingivitis and is an infection of the gingival (gum tissue). In this stage, gums become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. The underlying bone is unaffected. In later stages, however, gum disease can lead to bone loss and the loosening or even loss of teeth.

Gum disease treatment varies according to the stage of the disease. At its mildest stages, gingivitis can be treated by clearing plaque and tartar deposits from the gum pockets. Severe gum disease, on the other hand, might require treatment that includes bone and gum grafts.