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.
- Gum Grafting
Gum Grafting Explained | Free Gingival Graft
This is Dr. Cole. I’d like to take the next few minutes to talk about two slides. This is our two slide series. This patient came to me because we were looking at a worsening recession. As you can probably tell from this picture that there is quite a bit of root exposure, and then a lot of times along with root exposure, they tend to be an easier accumulation of plaque around the gum. And sometimes we result into some gum disease. Sometimes we result into gingival inflammation or bleeding. What we’re trying to set out to improve for her is to actually increase the thickness of gum tissue. There are two types of gum tissue that we’re looking at here in this picture. The line is actually quite nicely demarcated right here by my cursor, and right above it is what we called non-attached ginga. Basically, this tissue moves around, we call these mucosa, so the tissue itself does not bound to bone, and when you pull your lip around, the tissue moves around right underneath is what we call attached.
So these are the tightly buttoned gum tissue that basically prevents plaque from going underneath. So think of this as a really strong cuff that there’s the prevention when the mucosa moves around, this is really the counterforce. So whenever there’s not enough thickness here, the gun tissue really gets pulled up or down, depending on which jaw you’re talking about. But in this case, the tissue is pulling up and the thin tissue now is getting pulled up further away from the enamel, and then the roots are now getting close. So in this particular case, the patient is one, is having trouble keeping it clean. Second is suffering from some kind of sensitivity, especially to cold. So we take the tissue from the palate and transport it to wherever it needs more tissue, and this is really the result. So going back and forth here, I think this is full weeks after we did the procedure.
The recession seems to be better on both teeth. The tissue, the thickness of tissue now really probably went from maybe one or two millimeters to now about seven. So this healthy tissue is going to prevent the tissue from slightly down. Further. Unfortunately, it does not cover the roots completely, but you do get about a millimeter of rebound effect. So the recession actually appears to be better. All right, so that’s basically gingival graft in a nutshell. And this particular procedure is called free gingival graft. If you have questions, please feel free to give us a call at our office, (508) 478-3800 till next time.
Periodontal Services FAQ
What are periodontal services?
Periodontal services focus on preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions affecting the gums, bones, and tissues surrounding the teeth. These services aim to protect oral health by addressing the root causes of gum disease and other related issues. Common treatments include scaling and root planing, gum disease management, periodontal surgery, and regular maintenance appointments to maintain healthy gums.
Why are periodontal services important?
Maintaining periodontal health is crucial for overall well-being. If untreated, gum disease can lead to serious issues like tooth loss, jawbone deterioration, and even systemic health problems. Studies have linked gum disease to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Patients can protect their oral and general health by receiving early treatment and preventive care.
What is gum disease, and how is it treated?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues supporting the teeth, usually caused by plaque buildup. It starts with gingivitis, the early stage, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the gums recede, and the bone supporting the teeth is damaged. Treatment begins with professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar. More advanced cases may require scaling, root planing, or surgery to prevent further damage.
How often should I see a dentist/periodontist?
It is recommended that a dental visit be at least twice a year for regular checkups and cleanings. If you have risk factors like a history of gum disease, smoking, or diabetes, more frequent visits may be necessary to monitor your gum health. Early detection is crucial for preventing the progression of gum disease and maintaining long-term oral health.
What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing are thorough cleaning treatments for gum disease. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and beneath the gumline. Root planing smooths the surfaces of the tooth roots, helping the gums reattach and minimizing bacterial buildup. Remember, gum tissue does not attach to tartar. In fact, gum tissue reacts to tartar by bringing fighting action (inflammation) to the tartar. However, without professional help, the tartar cannot be removed. It is the inflammation that causes gingival swelling, redness and bone loss. This treatment is typically recommended for individuals with moderate to severe gum disease, as it helps prevent further infection and supports healthier gums.
What are the signs of periodontal disease?
Signs of periodontal disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and pain when chewing. If you notice any of these symptoms, seeing a dentist/periodontist for an evaluation is important. Early intervention can prevent more severe complications like tooth loss or bone damage.
How can I prevent periodontal disease?
Preventing periodontal disease starts with good oral hygiene: brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and using antimicrobial mouthwash. Avoid smoking, as it significantly increases the risk of gum disease. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can also support gum health. Regular dental visits for cleanings and checkups are key to catching issues early before they become serious.
Gum Grafting
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.
