Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Therapy

Gum disease—also known as periodontal disease or periodontitis—is a bacterial infection that affects the soft tissue surrounding the teeth. If left untreated, it can progress and destroy the bone that supports your teeth, leading to tooth mobility and even tooth loss.

As the disease advances, symptoms may include red, swollen, or tender gums, gum recession, bleeding, periodontal pockets, persistent bad breath (halitosis), pus-filled abscesses, gapping between teeth, and changes in bite.

When preventive care is no longer enough—particularly in later stages when damage has become permanent—periodontal therapy is essential to control infection, restore health, and preserve your smile.

Gum Disease Treatments

Treatment for gum disease depends on the stage and severity of the infection. At Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc., both nonsurgical and surgical procedures may be recommended to stop disease progression and support tissue healing.

Nonsurgical Treatments

Antibiotics:

Oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed to help fight bacterial infection in the gums.

Scaling and Root Planing (SRP):

Also known as deep cleaning, this procedure removes plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line. Local anesthesia is used to ensure comfort while your dental professional smooths the tooth roots, helping prevent bacteria from reattaching beneath the gums.

Surgical Treatments

Flap Surgery:

Your periodontist makes a small incision along the gum line to lift and expose the tooth roots for thorough cleaning. If bone loss has occurred, the bone may be reshaped to make it easier to maintain daily oral hygiene.

Dental Bone Grafts:

When gum disease has caused significant bone loss, grafting material is placed in the affected areas to encourage new bone growth and provide a stable foundation for your teeth.

Gum Grafts:

In cases of gum recession, a gum graft may be performed to restore lost tissue. Graft material is taken from the roof of the mouth or a tissue bank and sutured in place to protect tooth roots and improve gum health.

Guided Tissue Regeneration:

A biocompatible membrane is placed between existing bone and tooth to prevent unwanted tissue from filling the area, allowing bone to regenerate naturally.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP):

This regenerative procedure uses a small sample of your blood to isolate platelet-rich plasma, which is then applied to areas lacking bone or tissue to promote natural healing and growth.

Restoring Health and Function

Periodontal therapy plays a crucial role in stopping infection, preventing further damage, and preserving your natural teeth whenever possible. Through a combination of advanced treatments and personalized care, our team is dedicated to helping you restore and maintain optimal oral health.

Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc.

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