Periodontics

Periodontics is a very important dental field which specializes in the soft tissues of the mouth and the underlying jawbone which supports the teeth, called a periodontium. The periodontist, who specializes in this field, is mainly concerned with preventing the onset of gum disease (periodontal disease), diagnosing conditions affecting the gums and jawbone, and treating gingivitis, periodontitis and bone loss. Periodontal disease is a progressive condition and the leading cause of tooth loss among adults in the developed world.

The periodontist is able to treat mild, moderate and advanced gum disease by first addressing the bacterial infection at the root of the problem, providing periodontal treatment, then providing information/education on good oral hygiene and effective ways to clean your teeth. The most common conditions treated by the periodontist include, Gingivitis (mild inflammation of the gums which may or may not be signified by pain and bleeding), Mild/moderate periodontitis (the pockets between the teeth and the soft tissues are measured to be between 4-6mm it is classified as moderate periodontitis or gum disease), Advanced periodontitis (When the pockets between the teeth and the soft tissues in general exceed 6mm in depth, significant bone loss may occur; causing shifting or loss of teeth), and/or Missing teeth (when teeth are missing as a result of bone loss, the periodontist can implant prosthetic teeth. These teeth are anchored to the jawbone and restore functionality to the mouth).

Osteoplasty (hard tissue recontouring), Gingivoplasty (soft tissue recontouring), Bone grafting, Deep pocket cleanings, and Crown lengthening are among some other periodontic treatments.