Periodontal Care

In our Periodontal Care department, we provide comprehensive treatments aimed at maintaining and restoring gum health. Our services address various periodontal issues, including gum disease, receding gums, and deep-rooted plaque and tartar buildup. Through a combination of non-surgical interventions like scaling and root planing to more advanced procedures such as gum grafting and periodontal surgeries, our experienced periodontists work diligently to preserve the health and integrity of our patients’ gums and supporting structures.

Procedure:

Initial Evaluation:

Patients undergo an initial evaluation with one of our periodontal specialists to assess the condition of their gums and supporting structures. The periodontist performs a thorough examination, which may include periodontal probing, X-rays, and visual inspection, to diagnose any periodontal issues and determine the appropriate treatment plan.

Scaling and Root Planing:

For patients with mild to moderate gum disease (gingivitis or early-stage periodontitis), the first line of treatment is often scaling and root planing. During scaling, the periodontist uses special instruments to remove plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gumline, effectively eliminating bacteria and toxins. Root planing involves smoothing the tooth roots to remove rough areas where bacteria can accumulate, helping to prevent further progression of gum disease. Local anesthesia may be administered to ensure the patient’s comfort during the procedure.

Gum Grafting:

In cases of gum recession, where the gums have pulled away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots and causing sensitivity and aesthetic concerns, gum grafting may be recommended. The periodontist harvests tissue from the patient’s palate or another donor source and grafts it onto the receded areas of the gums. The graft is secured in place and sutures are used to facilitate healing and integration with the surrounding tissues. Gum grafting helps to restore gum tissue volume, cover exposed tooth roots, and improve the appearance and health of the gums.

Specialized Periodontal Surgeries:

For patients with advanced gum disease (periodontitis) or other complex periodontal issues, specialized periodontal surgeries may be necessary. These surgeries aim to access and remove deep-seated plaque and tartar, reduce pocket depths, regenerate lost bone and soft tissue, and restore the overall health and integrity of the gums and supporting structures. Common periodontal surgeries include flap surgery (gingivectomy), bone grafting, guided tissue regeneration, and pocket reduction surgery. The periodontist discusses the specific surgical procedure recommended for each patient, along with the expected outcomes, risks, and recovery process.

Follow-up Care and Maintenance:

Following periodontal treatment, patients receive detailed instructions on post-operative care and maintenance to promote healing and prevent complications. Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the progress of healing, assess the effectiveness of treatment, and provide ongoing periodontal maintenance. Patients are encouraged to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including daily brushing and flossing, as well as regular professional cleanings and check-ups, to prevent recurrence of periodontal problems and maintain optimal gum health.