What is Periodontics?
Periodontics is the dental specialty that treats gum disease and bone loss around the teeth. A Periodontist also provides surgical procedures for the placement of dental implants, for growing bone where implants are needed and cosmetic procedures that involve the gum tissue areas that are a part of a patient’s smile (the cosmetic zone).
At Desert Dental, our primary goal is to provide the highest quality experience for each patient. Through the art of periodontics, we can achieve superior results from minimally invasive dental implant and periodontal procedures. With a welcoming atmosphere, we offer personalized attention and focus on restoration by utilizing the most advanced treatments available. We use non-surgical techniques whenever possible to provide our patients with comfort and trust that we have their best interest in mind. We care deeply about developing a personal relationship with each of our patients that will last forever.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that destroys the supporting structure of your natural teeth over time. Periodontal disease affects one or more of the periodontal tissues: alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, cementum, or gingiva. While there are many causes of periodontal disease, plaque-induced inflammatory lesions are responsible for the majority of periodontal issues and are divided into two categories: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis does not always progress toward periodontitis but it always precedes periodontitis.
Dental plaque, the sticky colorless film found on teeth, is the primary cause of gingivitis. Plaque adheres to your teeth at and below the gum line. Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, often making them inflamed, red, swollen and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth causing pockets to form. If daily brushing and flossing is omitted, plaque can also harden into a rough, porous substance known as tartar (or calculus). This can occur both above and below the gum line.
If the bacteria is forceful enough or remains long enough on the tooth surface, gingivitis may progress into periodontitis and result in bone loss. Progressive bone loss can lead to loosening and subsequent loss of teeth.
Periodontal disease is generally painless and shows little to no symptoms. 80% of Americans will be experience some stage of periodontal disease by age 45. It is important to maintain proper home oral care and regular dentist visits to reduce the risk of developing this disease.
Treatment Options
Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease. Your dentist and dental hygienist will evaluate for periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment.
If the disease is detected within the early stages of gingivitis and no permanent damage has been done, one to two regular cleanings will be recommended. You will also be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits and having regular dental cleanings. If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) may be necessary.
Specific treatment options include:
- Scaling and root planing
- Guided bone and tissue regeneration
- Dental implants
- Bite guards
- Gum recession and tissue grafting
- Surgical care, including gum grafts and pocket reduction
- Crown lengthening
- Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery
- Pocket Reduction Surgery
- Bone grafts
- Biopsy of oral tissue
Desert Dental Specialty Group is the only dental group in the Palm Springs area that combines specialties of Prosthodontics, Periodontics, and Endodontics with General Dental Care for the entire family. Call and make an appointment today (760) 568-5928
