Periodontics

Periodontics is a dental specialty focused on diagnosing and treating diseases of the tissue around your teeth (gums). A periodontist works to prevent, identify and treat gum diseases.

Why Do I Need a Periodontist?

Studies show a connection between gum disease and other systemic health issues. It’s important that your experienced periodontist identifies and treats gum disease as quickly as possible. If you suspect you may have gum disease, you should see your dentist.

How Do I Know if I Have Gum Disease?

Here are some common signs you may have gum disease:

  • Bleeding of Your Gums
  • Receding Gumline
  • Red, Swollen Gums
  • Loose Teeth
  • Sensitive Gums
  • Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
  • Discomfort During Chewing

What are the Types of Gum Disease?

Gingivitis | Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. While you may notice bleeding in your gums and that they are red and/or swollen, you usually don’t feel much discomfort. You may be prone to gingivitis if you smoke, have diabetes, are experiencing high stress, and other systemic issues.

Periodontitis | If gingivitis goes untreated, it can turn into periodontitis. If you have periodontitis, you may have plaque under your gums and an infection inside the tissue. The gums may begin to separate from your teeth.

Common forms of periodontitis include:

  • Aggressive Periodontitis
  • Chronic Periodontitis
  • Necrotizing Periodontal Disease
  • Periodontitis Stemming from Systemic Diseases

Why Should I Treat Gum Disease?

  1. Decrease the discomfort you may feel.
  2. Save your teeth. Periodontal disease can cause tooth loss.
  3. A healthier looking smile.
  4. Avoid a dangerous systemic reaction from infection.

How Do You Treat Gum Disease?

The first step in treating gum disease is identification. This most often happens during your regular cleaning. However, if you suspect you have gum disease, you should come in to see us.

Once gum disease has been identified, the first step is usually to perform a deep cleaning. This deep cleaning is called “Scaling and Root Planing”. During this cleaning, tartar is removed from above and below the gumline (scaling) and rough spots on the root of your tooth are smoothed out (root planing) to avoid bacteria collecting there.

You may receive a prescription for antibiotic medication and, often, an antimicrobial mouth rinse is recommended.

After treatment, it’s important to continue to brush twice a day and floss after every meal. Don’t miss out on your bi-annual teeth cleanings.

Gum Disease is Treatable!

Parkway Dental takes all forms of gum disease seriously. Our team is trained to detect and treat gum disease as early as possible. We can help you regain your dental health! Call for an appointment today!