Numerous Americans will acquire some type of gum (periodontal) disease throughout their lives. Though gum disease is traditionally associated with elderly individuals, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statistics indicate that almost 65M Americans have gum disease. If it remains unaddressed, gum disease may cause irreparable damage to your gums and teeth, including tooth loss. Nonetheless, if identified and addressed early, several strategies for reversing or managing the damage exist. Here are seven common procedures the periodontists at Ueno Center Dental Specialists provide to address the different phases of gum disease.
1) Dental Implants
Dental implants treat one of the key signs of periodontal disease: bone loss. Whenever a tooth comes out, the underlying bone tissue begins to deteriorate. The implant substitutes the root and integrates with the surrounding tissue to avoid bone loss. A crown is subsequently fitted to the implant. Dental implants could be used to restore a single tooth or anchor a whole set of dentures.
2) Gum Graft Surgery
Gum recession is a sign of periodontal disease, which could reveal the bases of your teeth and confine germs below the gumline. In mild to serious gum recession situations, a gum graft (gingival graft) is performed to restore lost gum tissue.
3) Laser Treatments For Tartar Removal
Once oral bacteria combine with food, a sticky film known as plaque develops. Plaque transforms into tartar with time, increasing the risk of dental cavities, hypersensitivity, and tooth loss. Periodontists use laser therapy, which is less intrusive and more accurate than other treatments, to eliminate tartar accumulation gently.
4) Pocket Reduction
Severe periodontal disease damages the soft tissues and supporting bones of the gums and teeth. After the gums begin to move away from the tooth, pockets emerge that could trap germs and raise the danger of infections and other dental health issues. Pocket reduction techniques remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums and close the space, allowing the gums and teeth to fit together once again.
5) Regenerative Techniques
Suppose you have mild to serious periodontal disease. In that case, your periodontist might suggest a regenerative treatment to encourage healthy new bone development or restore soft tissue destroyed or damaged by bacteria. For instance, a bone transplant could replace and accelerate the development of new, healthy bone tissue in the jaw.
6) Dental Crown Elongation
If you have a ‘gummy grin,’ dental crowns could lengthen your teeth to provide a more symmetrical appearance.
7) Cosmetic Treatments
Periodontal disease could also inflict cosmetic harm to your grin. Thus, your periodontist could also make aesthetic enhancements to your grin after your oral health concerns are effectively managed.
Do not wait for periodontal disease symptoms to appear before taking action. While most periodontal concerns are easily treatable, they can cause cardiac illness, diabetes, stroke, and even premature births if not treated early. Schedule an initial consultation today for more information on the different phases of periodontal disease and explore the solutions available. Call the Campbell, CA office or use the online scheduling tool to get started.
