PERIODONTAL SERVICES
Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease as well as the process of replacing teeth with dental implants. Periodontists receive up to three years of additional, specialized training in treating periodontal disease and other conditions.
Periodontists are also specialists in treating oral inflammation and any condition requiring either non-surgical treatment or oral plastic surgery. Oftentimes, periodontists are treating conditions caused by periodontal disease and its effects such as persistent bad breath or gum recession.
We are proud to offer dental implants for our patients. Dental implants are roots placed in your mouth for either permanent teeth to be placed on or ones that you can remove.
Dental implants are done to improve a patient’s smile and usually their self esteem. Having missing or bad teeth can be quite embarrassing. Dental implants also can be done to improve oral health. Many people find it easier to eat with dental implants. Their speech can also be improved. Dental implants are also more comfortable because they are made to become permanent.
Gum grafting treatment for receding gums works best for patients who are suffering from more extensive gum loss where gum disease cannot be resolved by a professional cleaning alone. This procedure can help repair the damaged area of the gums and work to prevent further gum tissue loss. In addition to stopping recession, gum graft treatment will better protect the roots of the teeth from decay by giving the patient more gum line, and reduce tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
Here at Piedra Dental Group, we are proud to offer pinhole gum surgery as one of our services. This technique is used to treat receding gum lines without having to undergo any tissue grafting, incisions, or sutures. Pinhole gum surgery allows the natural gum tissue to cover the exposed root structure of your teeth rather than relying on donor tissue. The procedure is a minimally invasive, safe, and an effective way to treat the issue of receding gums.
Gum recession can be caused by a variety of factors such as:
- Poor Dental Hygiene
- Periodontal Disease
- Grinding or Clenching Teeth
- Genetics
- Tobacco Use
- Misaligned or Crowded Bite
- Oral Piercings
Gum recession can be dangerous if left untreated, as exposed roots can become easily infected and are more prone to sensitivity and tooth decay.
Scaling and root planing are a more in-depth, thorough cleaning treatment recommended for patients who may be suffering from periodontal disease. Also known as gum disease, this type of gum infection is caused by bacteria and plaque forming on your teeth over time and causing inflammation. While serious, periodontal disease is treatable. However, it can lead to bone or tooth loss if not treated quickly.
For patients who believe that their smile is too “gummy” or that their teeth are too short, we are proud to offer crown lengthening services to fix those concerns. Crown lengthening procedures are done to expose more of the tooth and remove extra gum tissue. By doing this, we can reshape your gums and help give your teeth the look and shape you desire. In addition to the life-changing results, crown lengthening is a minimally-invasive procedure that will allow for a more balanced, even smile.
Periodontal disease is a serious issue that affects many people’s lives. Luckily our experienced periodontists are capable of treating periodontal disease in our patients, a field in which they have rigorous training and education.
The cleaning of calculus, or tartar, is a major component of treating periodontal disease. However, changes in the patient’s behavior are just as important. Making sure your dental hygiene habits are up to par is critical in the treatment of periodontal disease.
Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime, so it is critical to properly care for them. If you have periodontal disease, don’t feel hopeless. It is a treatable disease, but one that requires the patient to be aware and active with their dental care.
